10 Magical Pacific Northwest Towns to Visit This Christmas
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Snow-dusted mountains, twinkling harbors, and enough hot cocoa to keep you buzzing well past New Year’s — Christmas in the Pacific Northwest is nothing short of magical.
This corner of the country delivers the best of both worlds: alpine villages that look straight out of a snow globe and vibrant cities with parades, markets, and lights for days.
Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy lodge stay with a roaring fire or a weekend filled with holiday shopping and waterfront views, these Pacific Northwest destinations know how to bring the cheer.
Bundle up, grab your camera, and let’s sleigh this holiday getaway list.
Leavenworth, Washington
If Hallmark ever needs a new Christmas movie set, they can stop looking — Leavenworth’s already got it covered. This Bavarian-style mountain town goes all out for the holidays, with more than half a million lights transforming its streets into a winter wonderland.
The Christmas Lighting Festival is the main event, complete with carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides, and steaming mugs of glühwein to keep you warm. Surrounded by the snowcapped Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth also offers sleigh rides, nearby ski slopes, and shops brimming with ornaments, nutcrackers, and other seasonal treasures.
Where to Stay: Bavarian Lodge — A cozy and centrally located hotel that’s great for families, couples, and friend groups. It features spacious rooms, an outdoor heated pool and hot tub, and a complimentary breakfast to start your holiday adventures.
Seattle, Washington
Seattle in December is pure holiday magic — with a Pacific Northwest twist. The city’s Winterfest at Seattle Center brings ice skating, festive performances, and a model train village that’s a hit with kids (and secretly, adults).
Wander through Pike Place Market to see it decked out in lights, or head to the Woodland Park Zoo’s WildLanterns for glowing animal displays. The Argosy Christmas Ship Festival adds a maritime sparkle with carolers singing from boats that cruise Puget Sound. And of course, the backdrop of the Space Needle lit up against a (hopefully) snowy skyline? Chef’s kiss.
Where to Stay: The Edgewater Hotel — Perched right on the waterfront, this family-friendly spot has cozy lodge-style rooms, great views of Elliott Bay, and easy access to Pike Place and the Seattle Aquarium.
Portland, Oregon
Portland might be famous for coffee, craft beer, and quirky charm — but it knows how to do Christmas, too. The city’s holiday calendar is packed, from the twinkling lights at the Oregon Zoo’s ZooLights to the magical Christmas Ship Parade, where decorated boats sail the Willamette and Columbia Rivers.
Pioneer Courthouse Square turns into the city’s living room with a giant lit tree, and the nearby holiday markets are perfect for grabbing unique, handmade gifts. Add in Powell’s City of Books for a cozy browse and a steaming cup of cocoa at a local café, and you’ve got the perfect urban holiday mix.
Where to Stay: The Benson Portland, Curio Collection by Hilton — A historic downtown hotel with spacious rooms, a warm lobby decked out for the holidays, and easy walking access to major attractions. Great for families, with on-site dining and plenty of room to spread out.
Astoria, Oregon
This charming coastal town may be best known for The Goonies, but come December, it’s all about twinkling lights and cozy vibes.
The season kicks off with the Sankta Lucia Festival, a Scandinavian tradition of music and candlelight. Downtown storefronts shine during the holiday window display contest, and the Winter Lighting Ceremony transforms the streets into a festive wonderland.
Sundays bring a cheerful Christmas market filled with local goods, while the historic Liberty Theatre often hosts seasonal performances. For a magical finale, climb the Astoria Column for panoramic views of the Columbia River wrapped in winter mist.
Where to Stay: Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa — Set right over the river, this hotel offers fireplaces in every room, soaking tubs, and a front-row seat to passing ships. Perfect for a relaxing holiday escape.
Hood River, Oregon
Perched along the Columbia River Gorge, Hood River transforms into a snow-dusted holiday postcard in December.
The charming downtown glows with lights, shop windows are decked out in creative displays, and local wineries pour seasonal vintages perfect for sipping after a stroll.
The Hood River Holidays celebration brings carriage rides, carolers, and plenty of small-town cheer. If you’re up for a little adventure, nearby Mt. Hood offers skiing, snowboarding, and even the iconic Timberline Lodge for a quick day trip.
Where to Stay: Hood River Hotel — A historic boutique stay in the heart of downtown with warm, inviting rooms and easy access to shops, cafes, and river views. Ideal for families or couples looking for a cozy holiday base.
Bend, Oregon
If you like your Christmases with a side of adventure, Bend is your place. This high-desert city knows how to do winter—think snow-covered pines, outdoor ice skating at The Pavilion, and craft beer by a roaring fire after a day on the slopes at nearby Mt. Bachelor.
Downtown Bend dresses up with twinkling lights, festive window displays, and plenty of cozy spots to warm up with hot cocoa (or a locally brewed pint). For a dose of holiday nostalgia, don’t miss the Bend Christmas Parade or the Old Mill District’s glowing decorations along the river.
Where to Stay: Oxford Hotel — Stylish yet welcoming, this eco-friendly boutique hotel puts you right downtown, close to holiday events, restaurants, and shopping. Spacious rooms and thoughtful amenities make it a win for families and couples alike.
Mount Hood, Oregon
Christmas on Mount Hood feels like stepping straight into a snow globe. With its powdery slopes, pine forests, and charming alpine lodges, this is the spot for a storybook holiday.
Spend your days skiing or snowboarding at Timberline or Mt. Hood Meadows, then swap your gear for a mug of something warm by a crackling fireplace. If you’re not into downhill action, there’s snowshoeing, sledding, and scenic drives through snowy mountain passes.
December also brings festive events at local resorts, from tree lightings to holiday dinners with epic mountain views.
Where to Stay: Timberline Lodge — A historic lodge with rustic charm, roaring fireplaces, and views of the summit. Its cozy atmosphere and classic holiday décor make it a magical winter retreat for couples, families, or anyone chasing that “White Christmas” feeling.
Bellingham, Washington
This charming coastal city brings a laid-back, small-town feel to the holiday season. Downtown Bellingham sparkles with twinkling lights, festive window displays, and local shops perfect for finding one-of-a-kind gifts.
Stroll through the Fairhaven Historic District for cozy cafés and cheerful Christmas events, or head to the waterfront for stunning winter sunsets over Bellingham Bay. If you’re up for a little adventure, Mount Baker’s ski slopes and snowshoe trails are just an hour away—ideal for mixing festive cheer with a dose of mountain magic.
Where to Stay: Hotel Bellwether — Overlooking the marina, this upscale hotel offers spacious rooms, fireplaces in select suites, and easy access to downtown and waterfront strolls. Great for families, couples, and anyone who loves a good view.
Walla Walla, Washington
Known for its wineries and charming small-town vibe, Walla Walla puts a warm, wine-country twist on the holidays. Downtown comes alive with glowing lights, shop windows dressed to impress, and plenty of cozy spots to warm up with a cup of cocoa—or a bold red.
The Holiday Parade of Lights kicks off the season, while local tasting rooms and boutiques offer festive events through December. Add in snowy Blue Mountain backdrops, and you’ve got a picture-perfect setting for a slower-paced, yet totally magical, Christmas getaway.
Where to Stay: The Marcus Whitman Hotel — A beautifully restored historic hotel right in downtown, offering elegant rooms, an on-site restaurant, and walking-distance access to Walla Walla’s holiday happenings.
Victoria, British Columbia
Victoria feels like it was built for Christmas—with its quaint harbor, historic architecture, and British flair.
The iconic Butchart Gardens hosts the magical 12 Days of Christmas light display, while the Fairmont Empress Hotel’s holiday décor could make even the Grinch smile.
Stroll along Government Street for twinkling lights and unique local shops, or catch a festive performance at the Royal Theatre. If you’re lucky, you might even get a dusting of snow to top off the holiday charm.
Where to Stay: Fairmont Empress — This legendary hotel is the ultimate holiday treat, with lavish decorations, afternoon tea, and a location right on the Inner Harbour for postcard-worthy views.
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