Places To Visit In December

1. Stockbridge, MA

Stockbridge might look just like a Norman Rockwell painting—and that's because it is! Each year, the town re-creates the 1967 Rockwell painting, "Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas (Home for Christmas)" during their annual festival. Old-fashioned cars line the main street to recreate the painting, and the public can tour historic homes decorated for the holidays.

2. Park City, UT

Why not escape to a literal winter wonderland for Christmas? Park City is a breathtaking place nestled in the mountains. There are tons of Christmas events throughout December such as holiday markets, sleigh rides, and a Christmas Eve torchlight parade, where skiers and snowboarders come down the mountain carrying torches to lead Santa into town.

3. Franklin, TN

Step back in time at the annual Dickens of a Christmas festival in historic downtown Franklin. The festival, which is in its 35th year, brings characters from A Christmas Carol and Oliver Twist to life throughout its weekend-long festivities. Roam the Victorian Village and try Victorian era Christmas treats like sugar plums while listening to carolers. Stop for a chat with Jacob Marley or Ebenezer Scrooge before visiting Father Christmas.

4. Duluth, MN

Thousands flock to Duluth during the holidays to witness Bentleyville, a massive light display. The event is free to the public and runs through November and December. There's also a scenic train journey along Lake Superior, as well as a bustling Christmas village set up in front of the historic Glensheen mansion.

5. Essex, CT

There are plenty of reasons to visit Essex at Christmastime. Ride the North Pole Express, then keep things locomotive-themed at the annual Holiday Train Show, or do some Christmas shopping at the holiday village where you can also catch a stunning light show. Have dinner or even stay at the historic Griswold Inn for the perfect New England holiday.

6. New Hope, PA 

Who wouldn't want to spend their Christmas in this lovely East Coast locale? You're bound to experience a "white Christmas" if you do. New Hope is also home to the North Pole Express, where you and your family will be treated to Christmas carols, hot cocoa, cookies, and even a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus themselves.

7. Darby, MT

Tucked within Montana’s Bitterroot Mountains, this gorgeous town is the perfect place to enjoy a true cowboy Christmas. Over at Triple Creek Ranch, you can enjoy horseback riding, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and more, and you'll find elaborate holiday décor all around the property and cabins. Guests are even given the option of choosing a real or artificial tree for their cabins, with ornaments provided.

8. Big Spring, TX

What's better than an all-American Christmas right in the heart of West Texas? This charming town is big on holiday spirit. In fact, it's been dubbed the "Lighted Poinsettia Capital of Texas." At the town’s historic Hotel Settles, you can expect to find a beautifully decorated grand lobby lounge complete with traditional décor. There's even a massive Christmas tree with presents underneath.

9. Denton, NC

All aboard! The Denton Farmpark’s Country Christmas Train in Denton, North Carolina is well worth the trip—both for you and any little ones you're bringing along. You'll stop by Santa's cabin, travel through a real-life "gingerbread house," and even sing carols at a church. With a population under 3,000, Denton is a fabulous, homey place to spend Christmas this year.

10. Blue Ridge, GA

A train ride with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and bona fide Southern charm? It's almost too good to be true. All that and more is available for your family to explore in this northern Georgia town.

11. Cape Cod, MA

Looking for boatloads of Christmas cheer with a New England twist? Head to Cape Cod! There are few things more picturesque than lighthouses decked to their nines in Christmas garlands, wreaths, and lights. What's more, the quaint seaside destination hosts dozens of craft fairs, parades, theater productions, and even a "Train to Christmas Town."

12. Manchester, VT

If you're a fan of White Christmas and are hoping to recreate the movie's iconic, rural Vermont atmosphere this year, there's no better place to do it than in Manchester. Guests from all over the country (not to mention the world!) look forward to spending their Decembers in the village. Our recommendation: Check out the mahogany-lined Wilburton Inn for a truly authentic Vermont Christmas experience—the whole place is lit up like a Christmas tree each year.

13. Atchison, KS

There may be less than 15,000 people living in this town, but that doesn't mean they're short on holiday spirit. Join the Atchison community for fun-filled, kid-friendly events including a Christmas parade, horse-drawn sleigh rides, a "coloring contest," and a Mr. & Miss Winter Wonderland Pageant. Trust us, grown-ups: You'll be jealous you can't partake in all of them yourself!