The halls are decked with holly, Mariah Carey is on repeat and you can’t stop buying cheese. That's right: somehow, it’s Christmas again. ‘Tis the season to be jolly, eat mince pies and drink too much fizz (just us?). It can also be the season to escape your family the every day and treat yourself to something a little different. From the party-filled streets of Hollywood to the snowcapped mountains of Aspen; pack your bags friends, we’re going on a festive jaunt across America. Here at Plum Guide, we've put our expertise to good use, and discovered the best US cities for Christmas joy especially for you. Find the best shopping, the biggest parties and, of course, ideal homes for cosying up.
New York
New York in Winter, USA
We couldn’t write a guide on the best US cities for Christmas without including the OG, could we? New York (New York, go on: sing it) always brings a lot of cheer, and it turns up to 100 in the festive season. A visit during the most wonderful time of the year sees its biggest attractions festooned with lights and shiny things. Catch the family-friendly show of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, delight at the over the top displays on Fifth Avenue and spend every penny you’ve got at the open-air market. Pass the eggnog.
When Dusk Falls, Plum Guide home in New York, US
Lake Tahoe
Snow-covered trees at Lake Tahoe in winter
It’s never a bad idea to visit Lake Tahoe. The jaw-dropping scenery entices more tourists than you can shake a candy cane at every year, but the festive season really holds a special place. Work off the Christmas excess with some cross-country skiing in the crisp mountain air before sampling the restaurants and bars. As to be expected, ice rinks pop up and you can most definitely nab yourself a sleigh ride through the mountains.
Crystal Bay, Plum Guide home in Lake Tahoe, USA
Santa Monica
If ice skating next to a beach has always been on your Christmas bucket list, look no further than Santa Monica. A big dose of sunshine at Christmas time is the perfect antidote to the pile of presents that weren’t really ‘you’. On the big day itself, you may find many shops and restaurants have closed up but that doesn’t mean a break in the run-up to Christmas isn’t just the ticket for a Christmas holiday with your favourite people.
Monochrome Magnet, Plum Guide home in Los Angeles
Aspen
Spend the holidays fireside with a hot toddy in hand. Not quite a city, but the slopes of Aspen and the community vibes make this one of the best US cities for Christmas celebrations. With a host of yuletide activities throughout December and the New Year, including live jazz, Victorian carolling (spot the Scrooge) and family activities, the whole clan is going to be happy. The annual Wintersköl Parade is always a highlight with snow and ice sculptures and firework shows. Happy holidays one and all.
Aspen Galena, Plum Guide home in Aspen, USA
Steamboat Springs
Person skiing among trees in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, USA
Snow-capped mountains and hot chocolates by the fire. Spend your holidays in a snow globe at Steamboat Springs. Once you’ve gotten to know the slopes, head to the Old Town Hot Springs to relax; the views are phenomenal. On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day keep your eyes peeled for reindeers riding through the glades and old St Nick making an appearance on the slopes.
Hollywood
Mingle with the stars (or at least spot lookalikes) when you take a holiday trip to Hollywood. You’ll get a bang for your buck at any time of year, but when better to visit the most ‘extra’ place in the US? The Hollywood Christmas Parade kicks off the season of excess with lights, celebrities and colourful floats, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. Explore our range of luxury vacation rentals in Hollywood.
Williamsburg
Person holding a Christmas present
The folk of Williamsburg, Vancouver (not the trendy Brooklyn neighbourhood) take Christmas very seriously. Almost too seriously, but don’t tell them we said that. Expect world-renowned festive decorations, street performances and an incredible roster of events to capture the imagination of the big and small. Celebrations begin with the Grand Illumination boasting multiple stages awash with entertainment and a jaw-dropping fireworks display. Check out our collection of furnished rentals near Williamsburg.
Scottsdale
Let the good times roll at Scottsdale, a sure-fire hit with all the family. From the interactive art displays throughout the city to the festive shows for little ones, Scottsdale is Christmas-crazy. Take a trip to the impeccably named Scottsdazzle and catch a fashion show, farmers market or walking tour. Best of all, there aren’t any snow boots or gloves in sight. Christmas doesn’t have to be white for it to be magical. Hole up in Scottsdale’s oldest tavern The Coach House with a glass of something mulled. Browse our full set of homes in Scottsdale. Explore our collection of homes in the US.
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