Traveling during the holiday season doesn’t have to break the bank! The U.S. offers plenty of budget-friendly and beautiful destinations that become enchanting in winter. Here are ten picturesque and affordable places to celebrate Christmas in 2024, with top activities and economical places to stay.
1. Leavenworth, Washington
Why It’s Great: This Bavarian-themed town is like stepping into a fairytale at Christmas. The whole town lights up with holiday decorations, music, and festive events, making it one of the coziest and most charming places to spend Christmas.
Things to Do:
- Visit the Christmas Lighting Festival to see dazzling lights and live performances.
- Enjoy sledding, snowshoeing, or ice skating at Leavenworth Ski Hill.
- Wander through the Christkindlmarkt, a Bavarian-style Christmas market.
Where to Stay:
Linderhof Inn – Quaint, Bavarian-style with cozy rooms and breakfast included.
Icicle Village Resort – Budget-friendly suites with a mountain view, plus hot tubs and a pool.
Planning to take a Cozy Winter trip this year? Check out my Amazon Winter Travel list for everything you need:
Click here for my Amazon List
2. Estes Park, Colorado
Why It’s Great: Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, transforms into a winter wonderland at Christmas, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views and snow-covered forests. The small-town atmosphere with classic holiday events makes it a festive yet peaceful holiday destination.
Things to Do:
- Attend the Estes Park Catch the Glow Parade, featuring floats and Santa himself.
- Take a scenic drive or snowshoeing trip through Rocky Mountain National Park for spectacular winter views.
- Warm up with a cup of cocoa while enjoying the Christmas lights in downtown Estes Park.
- If you are a fan of the Shining, or if you just like exploring historic hotels, visit the Stanley Hotel. It’s absolutely beautiful when decorated for Christmas. And, if you’re a fan of the book, you can take a tour of the hotel for $25 per person.
Where to Stay:
- Murphy’s River Lodge – Budget-friendly lodge near downtown with cozy rooms and fireplaces.
- Wildwood Inn – Affordable rooms near Rocky Mountain National Park
3. New York City, New York
Why It’s Great: NYC is famous for its iconic Christmas landmarks, from Rockefeller Center’s giant tree to the Fifth Avenue light displays. The energy of the city, mixed with festive holiday cheer, makes it a cozy (and bustling) holiday destination.
Things to Do:
- Ice skate beneath the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree or in Central Park.
- Stroll along Fifth Avenue to see the department store window displays and holiday lights.
- Visit the Bryant Park Winter Village for ice skating, shopping, and hot chocolate.
Where to Stay:
- Pod 51 Hotel – Stylish, budget-friendly option with compact, cozy rooms near midtown.
- The Jane Hotel – Unique, affordable hotel in the West Village with vintage decor and holiday flair.
Interested in spending Christmas in NYC? Read the blog post I wrote about the BEST things to do in Christmas in NYC in 2024 by clicking here!
4. Stowe, Vermont
Why It’s Great: This charming New England town is postcard-perfect at Christmas, with snowy streets, historic buildings, and a cozy holiday spirit. Stowe’s scenery and charm make it a quintessential winter getaway.
Things to Do:
- Go skiing or snowboarding at Stowe Mountain Resort, known for its powder and family-friendly trails.
- Walk through the Stowe Village’s holiday lights and visit unique shops for Christmas gifts.
- Take a scenic drive or sleigh ride through the Green Mountains for stunning winter landscapes.
Where to Stay:
- Commodores Inn – Affordable lodge with rustic rooms, close to downtown Stowe.
- Green Mountain Inn – Cozy, classic inn with fireplaces, festive decor, and a historic vibe.
5. Breckenridge, Colorado
Why It’s Great: Nestled in the Rockies, Breckenridge offers a snowy mountain backdrop and festive charm that won’t break the bank. Known for its historic downtown and excellent skiing, this cozy town becomes even more magical at Christmas.
Things to Do:
- Stroll through the Victorian Christmas downtown, lit up with twinkling lights and decorated trees.
- Attend the Breckenridge Ullr Fest, a unique celebration of the Norse god of snow.
- Go ice skating at the Stephen C. West Ice Arena or hit the slopes at the Breckenridge Ski Resort.
Where to Stay:
- Main Street Station – Family-friendly Breckenridge hotel in Historic District with free parking
- Pine Ridge Condominiums – Affordable condo rentals, perfect for families, with a cozy mountain feel.
Planning to take a Cozy Winter trip this year? Check out my Amazon Winter Travel list for everything you need:
Click here for my Amazon List
6. Charleston, South Carolina
Why It’s Great: Known for its Southern charm, Charleston’s historic streets and colonial architecture provide a unique Christmas setting. While not snowy, Charleston’s mild winter and enchanting holiday lights offer a cozy atmosphere without the chill.
Things to Do:
- Walk through the Festival of Lights at James Island County Park, with millions of lights and Christmas displays.
- Take a historic Christmas walking tour of the city’s decorated homes.
- Enjoy the Charleston Holiday Market for local gifts, food, and festive performances.
Where to Stay:
- The Meeting Street Inn – Affordable, boutique inn with colonial charm and festive decor.
- The Indigo Inn – Budget-friendly, historic inn with cozy rooms and a central location.
7. Newport, Rhode Island
Why It’s Great: Known for its Gilded Age mansions, Newport sparkles with classic holiday charm. The city’s historical vibe and waterfront views make it an elegant yet affordable Christmas destination.
Things to Do:
- Tour the decorated Newport Mansions like The Breakers and Marble House.
- Attend Christmas at the Newport Mansions Holiday Evening event.
- Explore Bowen’s Wharf Holiday Block Party.
Where to Stay:
- Newport Harbor Hotel and Marina – Waterfront, cozy rooms with holiday packages.
- The Attwater – Boutique, budget-friendly hotel with festive decor.
8. Park City, Utah
Why It’s Great: Park City’s combination of world-class skiing, festive charm, and cozy mountain vibe makes it an ideal Christmas destination. The historic Main Street glows with holiday lights, and the town is packed with winter activities and events.
Things to Do:
- Go skiing or snowboarding at Park City Mountain Resort, the largest ski area in the U.S.
- Attend the annual Snow Globe Stroll, where decorated snow globes line Main Street.
- Take a cozy sleigh ride through the snowy trails or enjoy holiday-themed après-ski events.
Where to Stay:
- Treasure Mountain Inn – Quaint and budget-friendly inn on Main Street, with easy access to shops and restaurants.
- Club Wyndham Park City – Hotel with 2 spa tubs, a short walk to Park City Mountain Resort.
9. Lake Placid, New York
Why It’s Great: This former Olympic village is known for its winter sports and scenic snowy landscapes. Lake Placid’s charming town center becomes a holiday hub with lights, parades, and winter activities.
Things to Do:
- Try ice skating on Mirror Lake with views of the Adirondacks.
- Visit the Olympic Museum and try bobsledding at the Olympic Sports Complex.
- Enjoy a Christmas Eve sleigh ride around the lake and through the snowy forest.
Where to Stay:
- Art Devlin’s Olympic Motor Inn – Budget-friendly inn with cozy rooms and Olympic decor.
- Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort – Affordable, lakeside rooms with stunning winter views.
10. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Why It’s Great: Lake Tahoe’s mix of snow, lakeside scenery, and holiday lights creates a perfect winter setting. It’s a fantastic, affordable place for outdoor lovers and Christmas enthusiasts.
Things to Do:
- Enjoy skiing or snowboarding at one of the local resorts.
- Attend the Heavenly Holidays festival in South Lake Tahoe with lights and fireworks.
- Take a scenic holiday gondola ride with views of the lake and mountains.
Where to Stay:
- Basecamp Tahoe South – Eco-friendly, affordable rooms with a cozy vibe.
- Blue Jay Lodge – Budget-friendly, close to Heavenly Village and Lake Tahoe.
Each of these destinations offers a unique holiday experience that doesn’t require a high budget. From charming light displays and festive events to cozy, affordable stays, they’re perfect for a memorable Christmas that won’t empty your wallet!
Thanks so much for reading!
Megan
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