Planning a holiday getaway can be one of the most exciting parts of the festive season. For many, Christmas feels complete only when fresh snow covers the streets, lights twinkle on frosty rooftops, and the landscape looks like a winter wonderland.
If you’re looking for Christmas vacation ideas, the US has countless destinations where snow in December is almost guaranteed. From picture-perfect small towns to bustling cities, you’ll find some of the best places to visit for Christmas right here.
In this guide, we explore where to go for Christmas vacation if you dream of snowy landscapes, holiday spirit, and activities that make the season unforgettable. Let’s get into it.
Why Choose a Snowy US Town for Your Christmas Vacation?
There is something magical about celebrating Christmas in a snowy setting. A blanket of snow has the power to transform ordinary streets into postcard-worthy scenes, creating the perfect backdrop for holiday markets and adding an enchanting atmosphere to historic neighborhoods.
Snow also brings an extra layer of fun to the season. Beyond the timeless joys of snowball fights, building snowmen, and sledding, snowy destinations offer a wide range of winter activities. Ice skating on outdoor rinks, skiing, snowboarding, or even cozying up with hot cocoa after a day of adventure all become part of the holiday experience.
Choosing a snowy US city for your Christmas vacation also means getting a taste of regional holiday traditions. Many towns and cities host festive markets, winter carnivals, and immersive drive-through Christmas lights displays, made even more memorable against a snowy landscape.
The Best US Towns with Snow in December
So, where does it snow in December? Across the United States, several destinations transform into a winter wonderland as the holiday season approaches. These towns and cities not only promise snow but also deliver seasonal events, festive traditions, spectacular holiday light displays, and activities that make them ideal for a December getaway.
Here are our top Christmas vacation ideas:
Aspen, Colorado
Best for: luxury winter escapes
Average snowfall: 171”
Located in Colorado’s White River National Forest and surrounded by the peaks of the Elk Mountains, Aspen is a well-known ski resort. The city’s high elevation means it often sees snow as early as September or October, and it is almost guaranteed in December.
Celebrities vacation here, Olympians train here, and travelers of all kinds can enjoy the world-class ski slopes and endless luxury experiences that come with an Aspen winter. It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking for an indulgent winter break with a classic Christmas feel.
In addition to skiing, there is plenty to be enjoyed in this snowy paradise. Aspen transforms into a winter wonderland during its annual “12 Days of Aspen” celebration, featuring concerts, holiday markets, ice skating, and visits from Santa.
Booking a SIXT car rental is the perfect way to explore the scenic state of Colorado. You will find that there are many different vehicles for you to choose from, including a top SUV for exploring the state’s mountains.
Marquette, Michigan
Best for: lakeside snow adventures
Average snowfall: 101″
Located in Michigan’s forested Upper Peninsula on the shores of Lake Superior, Marquette is a charming and historic town that is often blanketed in snow by December. Surrounded by impressive natural features, Marquette is a fantastic off-the-beaten-path holiday destination.
Among the city’s many attractions, visitors can experience skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, and explore countless frozen waterfalls and snow-covered trails. There are so many ways to get out and enjoy the snow here. If you’re looking for a winter adventure like no other, Marquette County has you covered.
Marquette is also one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in the US. While catching a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights is never a guarantee, the area offers several excellent viewing locations, including nearby Lake Superior, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Wetmore Landing.
Leavenworth, Washington
Best for: storybook holiday magic
Average snowfall: 80”
Brimming with charm, lively festivals, delicious food, unique tours, and guaranteed snow in December, Leavenworth, Washington, offers an unforgettable winter escape. Located in the Cascade Mountains, the storybook town of Leavenworth is a year-round vacation destination, but the city truly comes alive in the Christmas season.
Every winter, Leavenworth shines bright with over half a million festive holiday lights from 6 am until 11 pm each day from Thanksgiving through to Christmas Eve, for the iconic Village of Lights: Christmastown celebration. During this period, visitors can expect a schedule of live entertainment, meet-and-greets with Santa, and other festive activities, including a gingerbread house exhibition, crafts for kids, hot cocoa stations, and more!
The best way to enjoy comfort and convenience on your winter vacation in Leavenworth, Washington, is with a SIXT car rental, giving you the flexibility to explore nearby ski resorts, scenic mountain passes, and festive holiday attractions at your own leisure.
Stowe, Vermont
Best for: classic New England charm
Average snowfall: 235”
No list of Christmas vacation ideas is complete without mentioning New England, and Stowe in Vermont is the perfect holiday escape.
Snow transforms Stowe into a classic winter wonderland, with world-class skiing, cozy après spots, and snow-covered trails for every adventure. Renowned as one of the top destinations for winter sports, Stowe, Vermont, offers snowshoeing trails, snowmobiling adventures, ice skating beneath the stars, and so much more. If you’re visiting the town in January, don’t miss the Stowe Winter Carnival and watch Professional Ice Carvers create elegant and masterful ice carvings.
A short drive from several key cities in the Northeast, including Boston (3.5 hours), New York (6.5 hours), Montreal (3 hours), Philadelphia (8 hours), and Washington D.C (10 hours), Stowe is an ideal destination for winter road trips. Due to the volume of snowfall Stowe receives in the winter months, we recommend driving with snow tires, as while the roads are well-maintained, conditions can change quickly.
Explore SIXT’s range of top SUVs, perfect for driving in snow and ice.
Fairbanks, Alaska
Best for: Northern Lights viewing
Average snowfall: 65”
Each year, Fairbanks, Alaska, transforms into a winter wonderland, making it a prime spot for a Christmas vacation filled with winter activities, festive celebrations, and breathtaking natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy activities such as dog sledding, ice sculpting events, and cozy evenings by the fire after a day exploring.
The city’s highlight is undoubtedly the Northern Lights, which, for those lucky enough to spot them, offer a mesmerising display as they dance across the night sky in vivid shades of green, pink, and purple. This natural phenomenon makes Fairbanks one of the most magical places to go for Christmas vacation in the US.
With its warm atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, Fairbanks offers a memorable Christmas experience that combines holiday traditions with once-in-a-lifetime adventures. To make the most of your trip, renting a SIXT car is highly recommended, ensuring comfort and convenience as you explore Fairbanks as well as more of Alaska’s top travel destinations.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend getaway in the mountains or a break for the whole family, there are countless towns and cities that combine December snowfall with seasonal festivities. To make the most out of these Christmas vacation ideas, consider the freedom of a SIXT rental vehicle, allowing you to venture beyond the city center and experience your Christmas vacation at your own pace. At SIXT, we give you the option of adding winter equipment such as winter tires and snow chains, as well as ski racks if you’re heading to the slopes. These bookable extras are highly recommended if you’re driving in extreme winter conditions. Explore our premium fleet today.
