10 Magical Underrated US Christmas Getaways
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Everyone knows about New York at Christmas. Or Leavenworth. Or the Biltmore. But what if you’re after somewhere a little quieter, a little cozier, and a whole lot less crowded, without sacrificing holiday magic?
These underrated Christmas getaways in the US may not have the fame, but they more than deliver on charm. Think festive downtowns without the foot traffic, historic inns wrapped in twinkling lights, carolers, cocoa, and even a few reindeer (real or inflatable—we won’t judge).
Whether you’re looking for a storybook village, a mountain town decked out in garlands, or just a fresh take on the holidays, these lesser-known spots are merry, bright, and well worth the trip.
Here are 10 underrated Christmas destinations in the US that deserve a spot on your nice list this year.
Solvang, California
Solvang already looks like it belongs in a Christmas snow globe—just swap the snow for California sunshine. This Danish-inspired village in the Santa Ynez Valley feels festive year-round, but during the holidays it fully leans into the hygge vibes with twinkling lights, traditional treats, and Nordic-style decorations that feel both cozy and whimsical.
In December, the town hosts Julefest, a month-long celebration with a tree lighting ceremony, candlelight tours, live music, and a parade. There’s a scavenger hunt for kids, appearances by Santa, and plenty of Danish pastries and gløgg (mulled wine) to go around. Be sure to browse the boutique shops for handmade ornaments and stop by the Solvang Windmill for photos once it’s all lit up.
Where to Stay: The Landsby – A modern boutique hotel with Scandinavian flair that fully embraces the holiday season with festive décor, twinkle lights, and cozy spaces perfect for a wintery wine-country escape.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
With a name like Bethlehem, this Pennsylvania town was basically born for Christmas—and it doesn’t disappoint. Known as “Christmas City USA,” it blends colonial charm with European-inspired holiday markets, historic Moravian architecture, and just the right amount of small-town sparkle.
Come December, the town glows with white lights and classic décor. Stroll the Christkindlmarkt, a beloved German-style market with artisan gifts, live glassblowing, and gingerbread galore. You can also hop aboard a horse-drawn carriage for a festive tour of the lights and landmarks, or visit the Bethlehem Hotel and Moravian Museum for a look at 18th-century holiday traditions.
Where to Stay: Historic Hotel Bethlehem – This landmark hotel goes all in for Christmas, with elegant decorations, towering trees, carolers, and festive teas. Bonus: it’s right in the heart of the action.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Tucked into the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs feels like a hidden holiday village come to life. Its winding streets, Victorian buildings, and old-world charm make it a perfect backdrop for a cozy Christmas escape, without the big crowds or touristy overload.
During the holidays, the town comes alive with twinkling lights and festive cheer. Don’t miss the Eureka Springs Christmas Parade, the annual tree lighting in Basin Spring Park, and the Night of a Thousand Santas pub crawl if you’re in the mood for something a little quirky. The Crescent Hotel hosts holiday dinners and ghost tours with a Christmas twist, while local shops are ideal for finding one-of-a-kind gifts.
Where to Stay: 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa – Perched above town, this historic hotel goes full Dickensian with Christmas trees, garlands, and seasonal events. It’s festive, a little spooky, and entirely unforgettable.
McAdenville, North Carolina
Nicknamed “Christmas Town USA,” this tiny town outside Charlotte pulls off one of the most impressive holiday displays in the South. With just under a thousand residents, McAdenville turns into a full-blown winter wonderland every December—and it’s all free to enjoy.
Over 500,000 lights transform homes, trees, and the town lake into a glowing spectacle. The downtown loop is walkable, but you can also drive through to soak in the sights. Highlights include the centerpiece tree at the lake, synchronized light displays set to music, and holiday decorations on nearly every home. The whole town is in on it—and it shows.
Where to Stay: The Esquire Hotel in nearby Gastonia – A stylish boutique stay just 15 minutes from McAdenville, with holiday packages and cozy vibes to match the festive surroundings.
Galena, Illinois
Galena is a Midwest hidden gem that feels tailor-made for a vintage Christmas postcard. With its 19th-century brick buildings, gently rolling hills, and independent shops, this historic river town knows how to do the holidays right—quietly, tastefully, and with just the right amount of sparkle.
The season kicks off with the Holiday Fire in the Sky fireworks show in early December and continues with events like Night of the Luminaria, when thousands of glowing candles line the sidewalks and steps of downtown. There are carriage rides, a living nativity, and plenty of shopping in the decked-out historic district. The atmosphere is festive but never overwhelming—perfect for those who prefer charm over crowds.
Where to Stay: Jail Hill Inn – A beautifully restored boutique B&B with sweeping views of downtown Galena, elegant holiday décor, and award-winning hospitality that makes it feel like home (if your home were ridiculously nice).
Stockbridge, Massachusetts
If you’ve ever wanted to step into a Norman Rockwell painting at Christmas, Stockbridge is the place. This Berkshires village was the subject of Rockwell’s famous Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas painting—and every December, the town recreates it in real life, down to the vintage cars and wreath-adorned streetlamps.
The town’s big event is Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas, a weekend-long celebration featuring house tours, caroling, horse-drawn rides, and a full Main Street transformation. The Norman Rockwell Museum also hosts seasonal exhibits, and the town’s inns and shops lean hard into old-fashioned holiday charm. It’s a classic New England Christmas without the Boston crowds.
Where to Stay: The Red Lion Inn – Open since the 18th century and fully decked out for the holidays, with fireplaces, garlands, and a cozy tavern that feels like it was built for snowy December nights.
Stillwater, Minnesota
Perched on the banks of the St. Croix River, Stillwater combines small-town charm with serious Christmas spirit. Historic buildings, boutique-lined streets, and a dusting of snow (almost guaranteed) give it that Hallmark movie in real life feeling—without the over-the-top crowds.
December brings the Hometown for the Holidays celebration, with horse-drawn wagon rides, carolers in Victorian costumes, tree lightings, and a Twinkle Parade. You’ll also find a giant LED-lit tree in the town plaza and pop-up markets for local gifts. It’s festive, family-friendly, and just the right amount of nostalgic.
Where to Stay: Lora Hotel – Housed in a former brewery carved into the bluffs above town, this boutique hotel mixes historic bones with modern style. Around the holidays, it adds cozy winter touches and puts you within walking distance of all the twinkle.
Nevada City, California
This Gold Rush-era town in the Sierra foothills transforms into a Dickensian dream each December. With its historic buildings, pine-covered hills, and small-town feel, Nevada City feels like the set of a Victorian Christmas movie—especially once the snow starts to fall (which it often does).
The town’s main holiday event is the Victorian Christmas Festival, where carolers in corsets and top hats stroll the gaslamp-lit streets, vendors sell roasted chestnuts and mulled wine, and live music fills the air. Shops stay open late, twinkle lights cover nearly every storefront, and the atmosphere is charmingly old-fashioned in all the best ways.
Where to Stay: Broad Street Inn – A cozy, six-room inn just steps from downtown with vintage vibes and warm hospitality. It’s especially magical during the Victorian Christmas weekends, when the whole street outside comes alive.
Hermann, Missouri
This picturesque Missouri wine town along the Missouri River might not be on everyone’s Christmas radar—but that’s exactly why it’s such a hidden gem. With German roots, a quaint downtown, and rolling vineyard views, Hermann delivers a festive, small-town Christmas with a European twist.
The holidays kick off with Kristkindl Markt, a traditional German Christmas market featuring local crafts, seasonal treats, and glühwein. Throughout December, you’ll find chocolate wine pairings, cookie walks, and historic home tours. Bonus: several of the area’s wineries host special holiday tastings and events, so you can sip your way through the season.
Where to Stay: Hermann Hill – A charming hilltop inn and vineyard that goes all out for the holidays with Christmas lights, in-room fireplaces, and even fresh-baked cookies delivered to your door.
Hood River, Oregon
If you like your Christmas with a mix of mountain views, misty forests, and a dose of Pacific Northwest charm, Hood River delivers. Set along the Columbia River Gorge and backed by snowy Mount Hood, it’s a cozy holiday retreat where nature and festive cheer go hand-in-hand.
The season kicks off with the Hood River Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting, followed by holiday markets, caroling events, and even a “Santa Train” on the Mount Hood Railroad. The historic downtown sparkles with lights and local shops perfect for gift hunting. And if you’re up for a little adventure, Mount Hood’s ski areas are just a short drive away—ideal for a post-Christmas snow day.
Where to Stay: Columbia Gorge Hotel & Spa – This historic riverfront hotel dresses up beautifully for the holidays with trees, garlands, and roaring fires. The views are stunning, and the cozy atmosphere is pure Christmas getaway material.
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