10 Romantic Christmas Getaways in the US
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Looking to swap last-minute mall runs and tangled string lights for something a little more magical (and a lot more romantic)? Whether you dream of snow-covered cabins with crackling fireplaces or twinkle-lit strolls through historic towns, there’s no better time than Christmas to plan a getaway built for two.
These romantic Christmas destinations across the US bring all the cozy vibes. Think carriage rides, candlelit dinners, charming hotels, and just the right amount of holiday sparkle. Whether you’re escaping the chaos or leaning into it, these spots are perfect for making merry memories with your favorite person.
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen turns into a snow globe scene at Christmas—minus the kitsch and plus a whole lot of luxury. If your idea of romance involves fresh powder, twinkling lights, and après-ski champagne, this chic mountain town delivers. And while Aspen does “glamorous” really well, it’s equally great for slow strolls, cozy dinners, and fireplace lounging.
The holidays here include 12 Days of Aspen, a festive lineup of concerts, carriage rides, carolers, and even visits from Santa himself. The downtown is beautifully decorated, and the nearby slopes offer endless winter adventures for couples who like to earn their hot cocoa. And if you’d rather just sip something bubbly in a spa robe? That works too.
Where to Stay: Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection – A beautifully restored 19th-century landmark with cozy-chic interiors, glowing fireplaces, and elegant holiday décor that hits just the right note of festive sophistication.
Newport, Rhode Island
If you’re into Gilded Age grandeur, seaside charm, and a dash of windswept romance, Newport is your Christmas getaway soulmate. This historic coastal town goes all in on holiday elegance—think mansion tours lit by candlelight, colonial streets decked in garlands, and cozy harbor views that are pure postcard material.
December brings Christmas at the Newport Mansions, where opulent estates like The Breakers and Marble House are transformed with towering trees, thousands of lights, and classical holiday music. Don’t miss the Holiday Lantern Tour through town or a fireside dinner at one of the waterfront inns.
Where to Stay: Castle Hill Inn – Perched on a bluff overlooking Narragansett Bay, this luxurious hideaway offers a romantic, serene setting with fireplaces, gourmet breakfasts, and beautifully subtle holiday décor.
Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth is the Christmas village of your fairy-tale dreams—Bavarian-style buildings, snowy mountains, glowing lights, and just enough kitsch to be absolutely charming. It’s ridiculously festive and wildly romantic, especially if you and your partner lean into the cozy, cuddly winter wonderland vibe.
The town’s famous Village of Lights celebration runs all December long, with over half a million lights, live music, roasted chestnuts, and holiday characters wandering the streets. You can take a sleigh ride through the snowy forest, sip glühwein at a local brewery, or just walk hand-in-hand under the twinkle.
Where to Stay: Posthotel Leavenworth – This adults-only alpine-inspired spa hotel offers mountain views, fireplaces, a saltwater wellness pool, and serious “curl up and stay awhile” energy. Pure romance, no interruptions.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston swaps snowflakes for palmettos, but don’t let the mild temps fool you—this Southern charmer knows how to do Christmas right. Historic mansions draped in pine garlands, cobblestone streets glowing with lanterns, and waterfront sunsets make it a dreamy pick for couples who want festive flair without freezing toes.
December in Charleston means Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park (with over 2 million lights), historic home tours decked in period décor, and carriage rides through the city’s beautifully lit downtown. Add in world-class restaurants and romantic boutique hotels, and it’s basically mistletoe magic in mild weather.
Where to Stay: The Vendue – This art-filled boutique hotel in the French Quarter nails the cozy-meets-cool vibe, with warm lighting, fireplaces, and easy access to holiday happenings around the Historic District.
Lake Placid, New York
For couples craving a classic white Christmas with a dose of alpine charm, Lake Placid is hard to beat. Set in the heart of the Adirondacks, this former Olympic town is all snowy streets, frozen lakes, and mountain air—basically, the perfect excuse to snuggle up and slow down.
December brings the Lake Placid Holiday Village Stroll, a festive weekend with sleigh rides, wine tastings, craft fairs, and visits from Santa. You can skate on Mirror Lake, wander through locally owned shops twinkling with lights, or take a scenic horse-drawn carriage ride through the snow. Bonus: If you’re the active type, there’s skiing, snowshoeing, and even bobsledding.
Where to Stay: Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa – A cozy, elegant retreat right on the lake with crackling fireplaces, candlelit dinners, and serious “Hallmark movie come to life” energy during the holidays.
Savannah, Georgia
If your idea of romance includes moss-draped oaks, historic squares, and balmy winter nights, Savannah serves Christmas charm with a Southern twist. It’s elegant, slow-paced, and full of that old-world magic that practically begs for long walks and stolen kisses under twinkling lights.
December in Savannah means Holiday Tour of Homes, River Street festivities, and the Boat Parade of Lights along the waterfront. The historic district dresses up in wreaths and ribbons, and you’ll find candlelit dinners in restored mansions, cozy horse-drawn carriage rides, and more than a few places to grab festive cocktails under the stars.
Where to Stay: The Gastonian – This romantic inn is made up of two 19th-century mansions with antique furnishings, fireplaces, and just the right amount of holiday sparkle. It’s adults-only, quiet, and full of Southern charm.
Woodstock, Vermont
Woodstock looks like it was designed specifically for Christmas postcards—snow-dusted church steeples, covered bridges, and historic homes wrapped in garlands. It’s small, yes, but big on charm. And when the snow starts falling, the entire town feels like it’s been sprinkled with powdered sugar and pure holiday magic.
The highlight is Wassail Weekend, a beloved December tradition featuring horse-drawn wagon rides, a parade of people and horses in Victorian dress, holiday concerts, and more. Add cozy bookshops, festive craft fairs, and a general store straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting, and you’ve got a ridiculously romantic holiday escape.
Where to Stay: The Woodstock Inn & Resort – A New England classic with roaring fireplaces, traditional décor, and tasteful (but generous) Christmas trimmings. It feels festive, but never over-the-top—just like the town itself.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
If you like your Christmas with ocean breezes, storybook cottages, and artisan wine tastings, Carmel-by-the-Sea is the romantic coastal escape you didn’t know you needed. This artsy seaside village trades snowflakes for crashing waves and gives “holiday spirit” a refined, West Coast twist.
Carmel decorates with quiet elegance—think twinkle lights on cypress trees and garlands draped over stone archways. December highlights include tree lighting ceremonies, the charming Holiday Tree & Menorah Lighting at Devendorf Park, and festive shopping along the fairy-tale lanes of downtown. Add in coastal hikes, fireside wine tastings, and scenic drives along Highway 1, and it’s holiday bliss without the frostbite.
Where to Stay: L’Auberge Carmel – A romantic, European-style inn just steps from the beach. Expect cozy luxury, glowing fireplaces, and a quiet, intimate atmosphere perfect for unwinding together after a festive day out.
Breckenridge, Colorado
If your perfect Christmas includes powdery slopes, pine-scented air, and a town that looks like it belongs in a snow globe, Breckenridge delivers the alpine magic. This former mining town turned ski haven is bursting with holiday spirit—and just enough après-ski coziness to make it a couple’s dream.
Breckenridge kicks off the season with its Lighting of Breckenridge & Race of the Santas (yes, it’s as fun as it sounds), followed by a month of festive events, from holiday markets to sleigh rides through the snowy backcountry. In between skiing or snowboarding, explore Main Street, where twinkle lights and snow-covered storefronts make even a quick coffee run feel like a holiday rom-com scene.
Where to Stay: The Lodge at Breckenridge – Tucked into the mountains with panoramic views, outdoor hot tubs, and a rustic-chic vibe, this cozy lodge nails the romantic winter escape—especially when it’s lit up for the holidays.
Fredericksburg, Texas
Yes, Texas does Christmas—and Fredericksburg does it with German flair, twinkle lights, and just the right amount of small-town charm. Nestled in the Hill Country, this wine-loving, heritage-rich town offers a festive and unexpectedly romantic escape that’s warm by day and cozy by firelight at night.
Fredericksburg lights up with its Christmas Nights of Lights at Marktplatz, featuring a giant Christmas tree and a 26-foot German Christmas pyramid. There’s also holiday wine tastings at the region’s many vineyards, an ice-skating rink, and festive shopping along Main Street’s historic storefronts.
Where to Stay: Hoffman Haus – A quiet, beautifully designed B&B just off Main Street, with individual cottages, fireplaces, and Christmas decor that leans charming over cheesy. A great base for couples wanting both privacy and proximity to the holiday buzz.
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