I can’t believe Christmas is just around the corner! ‘Tis the season for twinkling lights, last-minute shopping sprees, festive feasts, dancing nutcrackers, and Santa. But it also means it’s time to treat ourselves to something special. After a year of hard work, who deserves a holiday gift more than you?
However, inflation is a big concern this year, and it’s messing with our holiday budgets. There are tons of amazing places to celebrate, but some can burn a hole in your bank account faster than you can say “Christmas.” But don’t worry, it doesn’t have to spoil the fun! A little planning and some clever exploration of Christmas traditions in these top cities can still make your holiday magical.
Whether you’re sticking to your family’s favorite traditions this year or craving something new, I’ve got the perfect guide for where to go. These cities are known for their incredible Christmas spirit, shopping, and affordability. You can still book that trip and make this Christmas one to remember!
Atlanta, Georgia
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and Atlanta takes the crown as the best city for Christmas! Prepping for the holidays feels like a breeze in this Southern city, with tons of bakeries, holiday shops, and festive markets. Find unique gifts at the Indie Craft Experience Holiday Shopping Spectacular or the Atlantic Station Makers Market—perfect for your Christmas list!
Holiday cheer is everywhere you look in the capital of Georgia. Skate under sparkling lights at Centennial Olympic Park’s outdoor rink or catch Atlanta Ballet’s The Nutcracker. If you’re feeling creative, try a holiday biscuit-making class at Sweet Auburn Curb Market!
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Christmas in Pittsburgh is pure magic, and there are a lot of reasons it’s ranked the second-best city for the holidays. Feel the spirit come alive with performances of A Musical Christmas Carol or wander through the enchanting Phipp’s Holiday Magic Winter Flower Show and Light Garden.
Bring the kids to Heinz Hall Courtyard to meet Santa in his magical house, where they can choose to visit a Black or White Santa—just let his helpers know! Don’t miss the People’s Gas Holiday Market or Handmade Arcade for unique gifts and treats.
Orlando, Florida
Every holiday season, Orlando transforms into a magical winter wonderland with world-famous theme parks, charming neighborhoods, and over-the-top resorts. The city’s holiday attractions are packed with jolly fun, from dazzling light shows and Moroccan lanterns to a 30-foot shimmering gold tree. Plus, upgraded food and drinks make it even sweeter!
Spending Christmas at Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, or SeaWorld is a dream for many families, but if that’s not in your budget, don’t worry! Orlando offers free or affordable fun like festive parades, light displays, and ice sculptures. The season kicks off Dec. 6 with the Tree Lighting Celebration!
Las Vegas, Nevada
The Las Vegas Christmas season is here, and it’s even better when you add a little spiked eggnog into the mix! As the fourth-best city for Christmas, Vegas boasts the most gift shops, toy stores, and hobby shops per capita, making it a shopping paradise.
For a chill holiday vibe, check out the Ice Skating Rink at the Cosmo or Enchant at the ballpark. Just remember to book your dining reservations for Christmas Eve and Day—they fill up fast! With winter temps averaging 65°F, the only frostbite you’ll get is from a cocktail glass!
San Francisco, California
With many locals out of town, Christmas in San Francisco is a great time to visit, especially if you’re ready to splurge! The city has plenty of seasonal fun, like the ice rink at Embarcadero Center, Christmas-themed bars, and homes decked out in holiday lights.
Union Square is the heart of Christmas in SF, with dazzling lights and holiday displays at historic stores. You can ice skate, shop at Macy’s, or check out the sugar castles at the Westin St. Francis. For more festive events, catch A Christmas Carol or join in SantaCon! Just be ready for some rain and chilly weather.
St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis knows how to celebrate the holidays, from twinkling lights and seasonal performances to pop-up bars with over-the-top cocktails. As the sixth-best city for Christmas, it has tons of toy stores and hobby shops to explore.
Head to Kiener Plaza for Winterfest, where you’ll find ice skating, s’more stations, and igloos under 100,000 lights. Don’t miss Million Dollar Quartet Christmas, a rockin’ holiday jam with music by Elvis, Johnny Cash, and more. Santa’s even swapping his sleigh for a riverboat cruise with caroling and hot chocolate. You’ll never run out of holiday fun!
Seattle, Washington
December in Seattle feels like stepping into a holiday wonderland. You’ll find bright lights, Christmas trees, merry parades, and holiday-themed exhibitions all over the city. Seattle is a pricey city, but many stores offer great discounts. Besides, with one of the highest online giving per capita, Seattle spreads the holiday spirit in every way.
Browse unique gifts from over 120 artists at the Winter Festival & Crafts Fair at the Phinney Center. The Gingerbread Village at the Sheraton Grand and the Winter Beer Festival at Seattle Center also brings plenty of joyous charm.
Chicago, Illinois
Imagine skating beneath twinkling city lights, looking through big and small boutiques for the perfect gift, or catching a dazzling holiday show. And let’s not forget the 100-year tradition of the Christmas Tree Lighting and the famous Magnificent Mile Lights Festival – a dazzling and huge parade that’ll leave you starry-eyed.
And don’t skip the grand finale: a holiday feast at the historic Walnut Room. This iconic restaurant, nestled inside Macy’s on State Street, is a Chicago tradition. It’s the perfect way to end a day of holiday fun.
Miami, Florida
Miami may not have snow, but from Knaus Berry Farm’s cinnamon rolls to Tropical Park’s whimsical lights, Miami is full of holiday spirit. Plus, you’ll know it’s Christmas when you see the Christmas tree farms, some of the largest in the country. It’s the perfect time to visit with the whole family, whether you’re checking out Christmas markets, fun concerts, or holiday shows.
Don’t miss the spectacular Christmas lights at NightGarden, transforming the gardens into a winter wonderland. Santa’s Enchanted Forest is temporarily closed but promises exciting surprises soon!
Birmingham, Alabama
Birmingham lives up to its “Magic City” nickname during Christmas. The city and its surrounding areas shine brightly with holiday spirit, thanks to communities, businesses, and churches going all out. You’ll love the cheery vibe everywhere!
Check out the Walk Through Nativity at Briarwood Presbyterian Church—admission is free. You can also drive through Christmas light displays at Lights of Noel or Magic of Lights. Plus, there’s the Holiday Film Series at the Alabama Theatre and Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shop, where Santa’s ready to hear your wish list until Christmas Eve!
Source: WalletHub
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