8 Best Christmas Vacations for Couples
The holiday season is fast approaching, and it’s a special time for making memories. So, why not celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with a romantic getaway for two? But here comes the hard part: choosing where to go
To help you plan, we’ve put together a list of the best Christmas vacations for couples.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy romantic winter getaway with cold weather or prefer to escape to a sunny spot with warm weather, there are plenty of options across the United States. But honestly, some are way too hyped, and others are totally slept on. We’ll show you the spots that are actually great for couples and guarantee some epic memories.
Want to explore some amazing winter spots that aren’t during Christmas? Check out these 10 Romantic Winter Getaways in the USA!
1. Pagosa Springs, Colorado
A true hidden gem, Pagosa Springs is a charming Colorado mountain town famous for having the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring. It’s perfect if you’re dreaming of a classic white Christmas in the San Juan Mountains and want a super cozy home base.
You can go dog sledding, hit the slopes at the snow-rich Wolf Creek Ski Area, or try cross-country skiing on scenic trails. In the evening, the town glows with Christmas magic. Soak together in the steamy, natural hot springs, take a romantic horse-drawn sleigh ride, and follow the self-guided Holiday Lights Tour. For the ultimate romantic stay, book a room at The Springs Resort for 24-hour access to the riverside geothermal pools, just steps from your door!
2. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe offers a uniquely enchanting take on the holidays, making it one of the best Christmas vacations for couples. This city, with its rich history and unique Adobe architecture, is a world away from your classic winter wonderland.
Stroll through the historic Plaza and Canyon Road, where adobe buildings glow with Christmas lights and traditional farolitos (sand-filled paper bags with candles) create a dreamy atmosphere. Browse the art galleries, enjoy a relaxing soak at Ten Thousand Waves spa, and cap the evening with tapas and live music at a spot like La Boca.
We recommend booking a room at the Inn on the Alameda. Many suites feature warm piñon fireplaces, and you’ll be just a short walk from all the jolly ambiance.
3. Frankenmuth, Michigan
If you’re aiming for a level of festive that’s visible from space (sorta kidding), Frankenmuth is the spot! This Bavarian-style village dials the holiday cheer up to eleven, transforming into a real-life Christmas village with dazzling lights and festive architecture.
Browse the world’s largest Christmas store, Bronner’s, for a unique ornament, but go on a weekday to avoid the swarm of holiday visitors (you’ll thank me later). Glide hand-in-hand at the ice rink, enjoy a festive carriage ride, and don’t miss a famous fried chicken dinner at Zehnder’s. The Frankenmuth Country Bed & Breakfast is our lodging of choice, where you can enjoy a delicious homemade breakfast on the outskirts of the bustlin’ city.
Top Tips for Traveling During Christmas
Traveling at Christmas? Crowded airports, snowy roads, and everyone in a hurry — what could possibly go wrong? Don’t worry, though. With a bit of planning and some clever tips, you can survive holiday travel like a pro (and maybe even enjoy it).
4. New Orleans, Louisiana
Trade sleigh bells for jazz rhythms in New Orleans, where the Christmas season blends classic charm with Creole holiday traditions. This romantic city offers a one-of-a-kind, festive atmosphere with a blissfully mild climate.
Festive activities range from spectacular Christmas Eve bonfires on the levees to wandering through the dazzling Celebration in the Oaks in City Park. Be sure to set aside a date night to enjoy a classic Réveillon dinner and listen to carolers in Jackson Square! For the perfect home base, the Elysian Fields Inn offers a colorful retreat with a delicious breakfast, placing you right in the heart of the action.
5. Bend, Oregon
For a great place to spend the holidays, head up to the Pacific Northwest and visit the town of Bend. Its snowy landscapes, cozy downtown, and endless snowy adventures make it one of the best Christmas vacations for couples who love the outdoors.
Go all out on winter sports like cross-country skiing at Shevlin Park or snowshoeing at the magical Crater Lake. In the evening, warm up with a craft beer at Terranaut before exploring the town’s charming light displays. And when it’s time to crash after all the fun, the FivePine Lodge and Spa has everything you need to unwind, nestled in a quiet pine forest just minutes from all the action.
6. San Antonio, Texas
Who needs a white Christmas when you can spend Christmas time on the River Walk? San Antonio brings together Spanish colonial vibes and Texas flair for a unique experience you really won’t find anywhere else.
Base yourselves at the Hotel Valencia Riverwalk, ideally in a river-view room with a balcony to soak in the holiday atmosphere. From there, you’ll have easy access to the River Walk, where you can stroll through a galaxy of twinkling lights, explore the Christmas markets, or catch a jazz show. If you have time, take a day trip to nearby Fredericksburg, a really cool town known for its German heritage and holiday cheer!
7. Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe offers the ultimate holiday getaway in Northern California, where snow-dusted peaks frame the stunning blue lake for a true winter wonderland. I mean, the views alone are sure to sweep you off your feet, but events like the Christmas Torchlight Parade and Northstar Winter Wonders make it all the more magical.
Fill your days with world-class outdoor fun like skiing at Heavenly, taking a horse-drawn sleigh ride, or exploring the landscape on snowshoes. When it’s time to cuddle up, Fireside Lodge Bed & Breakfast is one of the best! You’ll get to relax by your river-rock fireplace after a day of adventure and wake up to a delicious homemade breakfast. It’ll be busy this time of year, but it’ll feel like a snow day dream come true.
8. St. Petersburg, Florida
The best Christmas vacations for couples can absolutely include cocktails on the beach instead of cocoa by a fire! St. Petersburg is a popular winter destination, offering a sun-soaked festive season where palm trees are adorned with twinkling lights.
Your holiday agenda can include lazy beach time (duh), browsing downtown’s cute little shops, and a breathtaking sunset cruise on the Gulf. You also can’t beat a cozy beach campfire! For peak holiday cheer, check out the Florida Botanical Gardens’ light displays, Christmas Boat Parades, or even visit an ice skating rink by the pier. And for that classic sand and surf, the Hilton Garden Inn puts you just steps from the ocean.
Your Merry & Bright Getaway Awaits
When you strip away the wrapping paper and the decorations, Christmas is truly about the gift of time spent with the one you love. It’s in those shared moments — whether soaking in a natural hot spring or skiing the slopes — that the holiday spirit truly comes alive.
These best Christmas vacations for couples are about creating the memories that become your most cherished traditions. Have you ever taken a Christmas vacation with your partner? We’d love to hear about it! Share your favorite destination in the comments below!
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Best Christmas Vacations for Couples – FAQ
What’s the most festive Christmas spot in the US?
It’s hard to pick just one since it really depends on what you’re into, but Frankenmuth, Michigan, and Leavenworth, Washington, are usually at the top of the list. Both go all out with their charming European-inspired and Bavarian holiday vibes!
What is the cheapest day to fly during Christmas?
Generally, you’ll find the best deals on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Even the Monday through Wednesday before Christmas week can be pretty budget-friendly. As for flying back, New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day often have cheaper fares compared to immediately after Christmas.
What are the least crowded U.S. cities to visit during Christmas?
Looking for a quieter Christmas getaway? Check out these underrated spots:
– New Orleans, LA: Enjoy mild weather, festive vibes, and way fewer crowds.
– San Antonio, TX: Affordable stays and budget-friendly flights make it a great holiday pick.
– Asheville, NC: Perfect for a relaxed December escape with fewer tourists around.
