Last Updated on August 24, 2024 by Tori Pines
There’s something about the Christmas season that is just uber romantic to begin with. It’s one of the best times to get out and explore some place new. You and your significant other will both likely have the week off from work. Find a new city or small town and enjoy one of the best romantic Christmas getaways in the USA.
There’s so many incredible spots around the country worthy of a romantic Christmas getaway with your special someone. Wanting to wander a busy city street under the lights with snow falling around you? Maybe you’d rather enjoy a quaint small town with the most romantic little restaurants and holiday markets. Or you want to go skiing and end the day in a hot tub at your cabin in the woods…now that’s romantic.
Whatever you’re dreaming of this Christmas, grab your favorite person and explore some of our beautiful country at one of these unique US destinations!
This post may contain affiliate links for activities, destinations and products that I love, and think you will too!
Map of the Most Romantic Christmas Getaways in the USA
For other winter travel inspiration, check out all of my other US destination guides!
Romantic Christmas Getaways in the West
1. Napa, California
Recommended by Me, Tori!
One of my favorite romantic destinations in the US any time of year, but especially for romantic Christmas getaways in Napa, California! What place could be more romantic than rolling hills, endless amounts of local and delicious wines, some of the best restaurants in the country and incredible spas! Plus, they know how to celebrate Christmas in the most beautiful and classy ways.
My husband and I have thoroughly enjoyed exploring the hills of Napa Valley. Start off by tasting different wines throughout the valley at some of the best vineyards. You cannot go wrong at any of the vineyards here, but some of our favorites include Castello Di Amorosa for an epic castle and experience, Domaine Carneros for a French estate with lots of sparkling options and Frog’s Leap for a more authentic smaller experience. For the best experience (and safest!) book a wine tour through Napa so you have your own designated driver and someone who’s very knowledgable about the wine and the region!
Head into the town of Napa with your significant other and explore the cute little town, see the lights and Christmas decor. Spend time shopping in the local stores and eating at some of the best restaurants. There’s plenty of small cafes and local restaurants, but also a handful of exquisite Michelin star restaurants too.
Christmas in Napa are always perfect, with many festive events throughout the month of December. In my opinion, the best experience is found onboard the Napa Wine Train. This luxury train will bring you through the Napa valley and you’ll spend a several hours admiring the rolling hills, being served delicious food, drinking local wine from the region and meeting Santa himself! This is perfect for kids and adults alike!
2. Maui, Hawaii
Recommended by Me, Tori!
Sometimes magical and romantic Christmas getaways include cold weather, snow and hot cocoa. But sometimes in the middle of the cold winter, you just want to run away to a warm romantic destination with your love. That’s when you need to book a flight to Maui and enjoy the tropical Christmas of your dreams.
Flights will take anywhere from 5 to 12 hours depending on where you are in the states. Don’t worry, it is very worth the wait. Especially if you have all week off from work, it’s the perfect time to make the trip. The winter means consistently warm days, and the best opportunity to spot whales off the coast!
Maui is one of Hawaii’s four main islands and is the second most visited of them. It has the perfect blend between touristy activities and remote destinations to explore with just your person. During the holidays the island has many celebrations to enjoy. Check out the lighting of banyan tree in Lahaina, the holiday markets at Whalers Village or in Wailea or A Christmas Day Luau with special guest Kanakaloka, aka Mr. Claus.
You’ll have plenty of time to lounge around drinking cocktails on the beach or by the pool. But don’t forget to get off that chair and explore the island! There are so many active things to do on Maui. Start by driving the Road to Hana, watching the sunrise at Haleakala, Hiking the Pipiwai Trail through the bamboo forest, or taking a foster pup out for a day of adventure. Explore the island while spending quality time with your special person, falling in love more and more among the palm trees.
Whatever you choose to do during your time on Maui will make for a super romantic Christmas getaway.
Choose to stay in Kaanapali where the more budget friendly resorts are. The Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa at Black Rock is my favorite hotel on the island. If your budget is a little bigger you might want to book a room in Wailea at the Wailea Beach Resort. Or, when you’re exploring the Road to Hana, consider spending the night in Hana at the newly renovated, and uber luxurious, Hana-Maui Resort.
For food, check out Kimo’s in Lahaina for the world’s best dessert, Hula Pie. For an absolutely outstanding dinner, book reservations in advance at Star Noodle. The food is so much better than you can imagine, and very much deserving of the hype. Or, visit Mama’s Fish House, the famous elegant restaurant on the North Shore. It’s incredibly delicious but also incredibly expensive.
Love to travel? Join my Facebook group to be a part of a small community of fellow travel lovers! Get inspiration for your next trip, ask and answer questions and make new friends who also love exploring the world!
3. Leavenworth, Washington
Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler
Imagine walking, hand in hand, in a bustling village, surrounded by Bavarian architecture, twinkling lights, and, in the distance, snowy mountains. Leavenworth, Washington, nestled in the Cascade Mountains, can offer all that and more.
The tiny village is one of the most fairytale-like towns in the United States, thanks to its charming downtown, stuffed to the brim with Bavarian buildings. Christmas in Leavenworth, though, truly takes it to a whole different level. Leavenworth is one of the most romantic Christmas getaways in the USA.
Here, you can duck into cozy wine bars to drink a mug of gluhwein by a roaring fire. Or stroll around the small downtown to admire the half a million lights twinkling from the buildings, sample some of the chestnuts roasting over an open fire, or enjoy the carolers’ cheery songs. When you get hungry, don’t miss Cured by Visconti. This spot dishes up traditional German fare, like pretzels and sausages, in a festive bierhall setting.
The weather is usually chilly and snowy in December, so be prepared to bundle up! Luckily, there’s plenty of places to explore inside if you need a reprieve from the cold. Like the Nutcracker Museum, home to over 7,000 nutcrackers from around the world.
If you’d like to take advantage of the winter wonderland around you, there’s plenty of opportunities, like snowshoeing in the nearby Lake Wenatchee State Park. Once you’ve had your fill, head back to town and get cozy at the Bavarian Lodge. You can warm up in the hot tub together and take in the views of the surrounding Cascade Mountains.
4. Yosemite, California
Recommended by Karen of Travel Mad Mum
Yosemite turns into a wonderland over the winter period. Towering mountains are covered in a blanket of snow, pine trees dusted and granite cliffs turn orange at sunset!
The park is nowhere near as busy in the colder months providing total privacy in so many areas. There are plenty of things to do over Christmas, perfect for romantic Christmas getaways.
Ice skating at Curry Village is pretty special. Imagine warming up in front of a fire with a hot chocolate beneath the towering mountains before heading out onto the ice, skating hand in hand. The views are just stunning.
With a little bit of thought when it comes to packing, hikes in the isolated wilderness are completely doable over the Christmas period in Yosemite. Pack warm layers, a waterproof jacket and snowshoes. Head to see the infamous Yosemite falls which is completely frozen and mesmerizing at Christmas time. The temperature is between 28 and 47 F in the month of December. Bring a flask of hot cocoa for a pit-stop to warm up.
Book a table for Christmas dinner at the banquet event at the Ahwahnee Hotel. They put on a lavish English medieval style event with theatrical performances and festive food. It’s also a great place to stay and rated one of the best hotels in the area close to all the tourist hot spots.
No trip to Yosemite is complete without watching a winter sunset. Head to Tunnel View to capture some incredible shots. The tunnel perfectly frames the granite cliffs in the distance. It’s on Wawona Road near El Portal.
Finally, head to Madeira’s to catch one of their festive evening parades. Tractors and pretty much any vehicle that wants to join in can do so. The only requirement is the vehicle has to be decked out in lots of lights! Visit vendors along the street of the parade to taste wine and feast on festive nibbles.
It is best to rent a car or an RV to travel around Yosemite. If you are flying in, LA, Las Vegas and San Francisco are all potential landing points a few hours away.
Want more great travel articles? I have many more blog posts coming soon, so join my email list to ensure you never miss a post!
5. Fairbanks, Alaska
Recommended by Bradley of Dream Big Travel Far
Fairbanks is the second biggest city in Alaska that can make for quite a romantic Christmas getaway destination. It sits on the Tanana River while the 100-mile Chena River cuts through it, which means plenty of river activities to revel in! In winter months, including Christmas, you can look forward to watching various snowmobile races here.
Overall, this is a fantastic city to learn more about the Alaskan wilderness and its unique culture. And there’s no better time than Christmas! Although the weather can be pretty cold as it’s getting the most snowfall, it can be worthwhile if you can stand the biting temperature. That’s because December is among the best times to witness the northern lights. It is a quintessentially romantic thing to do. But that’s just one of the many reasons that Fairbanks makes the list for the most romantic Christmas getaways.
To get to Fairbanks, you can drive from the contiguous US via the scenic Alaska Highway. The road trip itself can be a valuable experience where you bond and just spend time with your partner. There are many photo and hiking opportunities throughout the highway. Otherwise, you can also fly into Fairbanks International Airport.
One final stop to make when in Fairbanks is Chena Hot Springs. It can be especially relaxing to bathe in the hot springs on a cold, wintery day. Not to mention after a day full of snowy activities!
In terms of where to stay, the options are endless. Cozy bed and breakfasts to mid-range hotels and five-star resorts. If you’re driving to Fairbanks in an RV or campervan, the River’s Edge RV Park can be an excellent option to park and stay the night.
Finally, make sure to visit The Pump House for great food and cocktails. The antique Victorian furnishing reflects its past life as an industrial water pump station. And there’s nothing more charming than the corrugated tin walls here.
6. Prescott, Arizona
Recommended by Dee of Vanilla Papers
With its wooden cabins, shimmering lakes and quaint downtown, Prescott is an ideal romantic Christmas getaway that offers charming small-town Christmas festivities.
Just a two-hour drive from Phoenix, Prescott is a real winter playground. It sees mild weather and average December highs of 51 degrees.
And it’s dubbed as “Arizona’s Christmas City” with its sparkling courthouse, giant Christmas tree in the plaza and lots of great shopping. Celebrating Christmas is one of the best things to do in Prescott.
Load up on unique gifts and stocking stuffers at Prescott’s antique shops and boutiques that line the main street. Whether that’s turquoise jewelry or soaps infused with local herbs, Prescott has some of the best little shops in Arizona.
Don’t miss the Christmas Lights Parade in late November with its music, caroling and a reading of The Night Before Christmas.
And spend a romantic evening at the Annual Christmas Parade and Courthouse Lighting. It’s usually held on the first Saturday of December. This event brings the entire small community together with colorful floats and festivities.
Stop for lunch at the cozy Dinner Bell Cafe, an American diner with all the classics on the menu that’s been serving locals since 1939. Indulge in some hand-crafted sandwiches and desserts in a charming ambiance.
And for a real romantic getaway, stay at the Majestic Mountain Retreat. This secluded gem has sweeping forest views at a 6,500-foot elevation. And there are lots of hiking trails around the property that make for great bonding experiences with your partner.
Romantic Christmas Getaways in the Northeast
7. Woodstock, Vermont
Recommended by Paula of Paula Pins the Planet
If you are looking for destinations for romantic Christmas getaways in the USA, you should add Woodstock in Vermont to the top of your list. Woodstock has a reputation for a romantic escape, offering plenty of things to do, from history to adventure outdoors. Woodstock is a small, quaint town with plenty of things to explore in town and the surroundings. It is one of the best things to do in Vermont in winter and one of the most beautiful towns to visit in the United States, for a reason. Woodstock won’t disappoint you!
You should visit Woodstock for at least two days and one night, to have the full experience. Here you will find great options for inns and boutique hotels. But if you are looking for a romantic gateway to stay in Woodstock, you should check out the Woodstock Inn & Resort. It is a huge hotel that offers a wide variety of room options. It’s also in a great location as it’s situated close to Marsh-Billings Rockefeller Park and the Billings Farm Museum.
If you are looking for a fun way to spend your Christmas in Woodstock, downtown has plenty of fun options. Whether you are into a draft beer, wine, fine dinner, or dancing all night long. Here you will find something for everyone, and all within walking distance.
If you’re flying, the closest airport is Burlington International (BTV). Approximately 90-minutes from Woodstock. Woodstock is cold in winter with temperatures that can drop below zero. But as long as you pack accordingly, you will love it because the snow makes Vermont’s landscape look and feel even more spectacular!
8. White Mountains, New Hampshire
Recommended by Sam of New England Wanderlust
For a cozy and romantic Christmas getaways in New England, you’ll want to head to New Hampshire’s White Mountains region. Between small little towns that are completely aglow with lights at Christmas, snow-capped mountains at every turn, Christmas train rides, and charming hotels, it’s got all the ingredients for a memorable Christmas vacation.
One of the best towns for Christmas festivities in the White Mountains is North Conway, and here, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a holiday postcard. Be sure to take a romantic stroll down Main Street to admire the rows of colorful, quaint shops decked out in holiday wreaths and garlands. Then, hop aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad for a magical, wintery train ride through the mountains. After your train ride, pop into the Christmas Loft, one of the best Christmas stores in New England, to hunt for the perfect ornament for your tree.
For a romantic Christmas afternoon day trip, head to the cute little town of Littleton. Its famous Main Street has been called one of the best in the U.S., and will be dripping with twinkle lights and garlands. For dinner, linger a while with a view of the river at Schilling Beer Co. while sipping a seasonal brew and indulging in artisanal pizzas.
One of the best places to stay in the White Mountains during Christmas is the perfectly named Christmas Farm Inn & Spa, which is a traditional style New England Inn that will feel as cozy as home. As a special holiday present to yourself, book a massage at their spa for the ultimate afternoon of pampering.
Be sure to bundle up for this trip! The average high temperatures are around 32-34°F, with the lows dipping to 15°F, so a good parka and warm boots should be on your packing list.
The closest international airport to the White Mountains is Portsmouth, NH, which is about 1.5 hours away, depending on which town you stay in. Boston Logan Airport is about 2.5 hours away, and may offer cheaper flight options. From either airport, you’ll need to rent a car and drive.
9. New York, New York
Recommended by Sam Opp of Find Love and Travel
New York is easily one of the most romantic places to visit over the Christmas holiday. With tons of Christmas decorations, romantic activities, and Christmas Markets, you will be spoiled with choices. Add this to your list of romantic Christmas getaways to spend with your love this Christmas.
Getting to New York is very easy. They are one of the largest transport hubs in the USA, you can fly into John F Kennedy Airport, Newark in New Jersey, or Laguardia International Airport. All 3 airports will have public transportation into Manhattan. If you are traveling from the USA, there are also Amtrak trains, as well as bus services.
The weather in New York during Christmas time is generally cold and will require you to bring winter clothes. Expect the temperature to be below freezing or close to it. You may even get to experience a white Christmas since every so often it will snow during Christmas time.
One of the best things you will want to do is see some of the best Christmas decorations in NYC. Dyker Heights in Brooklyn is a great place to do this. It looks like Christmas exploded on the homes! This activity is even popular with local New Yorkers, and can be a fun and romantic way to spend your night.
You also must see the Rockefeller Center Tree. This is an iconic thing to do during Christmas time in New York. You can even ice skate under the Christmas Tree.
If you want to enjoy a great steak house, make a reservation at Keens Steakhouse located in Midtown near Macy’s Herald Square.
The Plaza Hotel is one of the most famous hotels in New York, especially around the holidays, and overlooks Central Park. This is a great place to stay for a luxurious experience. But no matter where you stay, you’ll have one of the most romantic Christmas getaways in New York City.
10. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Recommended by Amber of Amber Everywhere
Philadelphia is a wonderfully romantic place to spend Christmas because it has all of the charm of larger cities without the huge crowds. It’s also the perfect place to pick up a unique gift; be sure to check out the vintage stores near South Street for the most interesting finds.
You’ll find that Philadelphia has a relaxed, almost carefree energy, perfect for enjoying your partner’s company without too much hustle and bustle. When you get peckish, you’ll find interesting and creative eateries and bars throughout the city. History buffs will love visiting the Liberty Bell or the Edgar Allen Poe National Historic Site, and cinephiles will want to run to the top of the Philadelphia Art Museum steps just like Rocky.
In December, there’s a small Christmas market and ice skating rink in Center City, perfect for a quick photo op and a chance to show off your skating moves. Then, head to LOVE Park for a picture with your partner in front of the iconic LOVE sign. Finally, get cozy in a hip cocktail bar, like the Franklin Mortgage Company speakeasy.
You can easily reach Philadelphia by car, train, plane, or bus, as the city is close to the major metropolitan areas of New York City; Washington, D.C.; and Atlantic City. Stay at the ROOST Rittenhouse, a lovely spot with modern decor that’s close to City Hall and Rittenhouse Square. ROOST is very close to one of the best bakeries in the city, K’Far Cafe, where you can find delicious pastries and creative coffee drinks.
From K’Far, it’s only a short walk to one of the most popular coffee shops in the city, Elixr Coffee Roasters, where you can grab a delicious espresso drink and sneak in a self-care break.
Romantic Christmas Getaways in the Midwest
11. Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio
Recommended by Jenn of Those Johnson Boys
When you visit Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio for the holidays, you’ll be transported to a winter wonderland. From cozy accommodations to hikes that can be accessed year-round, you can unplug and enjoy this romantic Christmas getaway.
While there are several gorgeous hikes in the area, you’ll definitely want to check out Ash Cave. Each year, Christmas in Ash Cave takes place. During this event, the hike to Ash Cave is lit up with Christmas lights. You can enjoy hot chocolate and cookies while you warm up around a campfire and listen to carolers sing.
For a unique souvenir, visit Jack Pine Studio, where you can purchase a blown glass Christmas ornament. While you’re there, make sure to watch the artists in action, as they perform demonstrations each day. If you want something even more personalized, you can book a glass blowing class and make your own.
The Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls is the perfect place to stay during your trip. This bed and breakfast not only offers a range of accommodations, such as geodomes, yurts, and cabins, but you can also enjoy a romantic dinner at the restaurant there, Kindred Spirits. Looking for even more relaxation? Book a spa treatment during your stay.
Hocking Hills State Park is located about an hour southeast of Columbus, Ohio. Make sure to pack for cold weather, as you can expect the highs to be in the 40s and the lows to be in the 20s. There may also be a chance for snow during your visit making this romantic Christmas getaway even more magical.
Romantic Christmas Getaways in the South
12. Charleston, South Carolina
Recommended by Lauren of Family Recess
Charleston, South Carolina is a great place to have romantic Christmas getaways, especially if you like milder temperatures. While the rest of the country is getting their first visit from Jack Frost around this time of year, Charleston is still in the 60s, allowing you to stroll the quaint streets donning your favorite holiday sweater without a big, puffy jacket.
From the history to the comfort food to the southern hospitality, wintertime is a fantastic time to visit and take in the sights. Visiting Charleston by plane is easy, with downtown just a 20 minute drive from the airport (CHS). Stay at the historic Wentworth Mansion as an indulgent Christmas gift to each other, and make sure to reserve a table for two at the hotel’s romantic Circa 1886 restaurant. Alternatively, book a room at the Francis Marion Hotel, located right on King street (It’s where Tori and her husband Austin got married, and is said to have a few resident ghosts!)
The Wentworth Mansion is just a few steps away from famous King Street where “Christmas on King Street” activities are happening from Thanksgiving to New Year’s including several shop and stroll events and a Christmas parade. There is something so fun about standing amongst the palm trees and seeing Santa ride by.
Before you leave, make sure to grab a brunch at Husk. It’s a Charleston staple and is delicious all year round.
13. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Recommended by Jillian Michelle of Adventure Dragon
Pigeon Forge is the perfect place for anyone hoping to spend romantic Christmas getaways in the mountains. Measuring just thirteen square miles, this tiny Tennessee town lies 35 miles southeast of Knoxville’s McGhee Tyson Airport and can be easily reached on US Route 441 South.
During Christmas in Pigeon Forge, the entire town is decorated in holiday lights, and the weather is crisp, with winter temperatures typically reaching between 30 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pigeon Forge is known for its small town charm, its quirky tourist attractions, and its unique position as a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains. From the glass gondola seats of the 200-foot-tall Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, you can experience the best views of the surrounding slopes. The ferris wheel is one of the most photographed attractions in town, and it’s even lit up in green and red colors during Christmas to celebrate the holidays.
Dollywood is another popular place to visit during Christmas week. During their annual Smoky Mountain Christmas celebration, you can enjoy theme park rides, special holiday shows, and over five million Christmas lights.
For dinner, head to Christmas at Dolly Parton’s Stampede for one of the most popular dinner shows in town. The horse-themed Christmas performance is full of special effects and includes a four course meal so that you can eat while you watch the entertainment.
To make your Christmas vacation even more memorable, stay at Pigeon Forge’s only Christmas-themed hotel–the Inn at Christmas Place!
Alternatively, head to nearby Nashville for Christmas, a super romantic and always fun option for the holidays!!
14. Alexandria, Virginia
Recommended by Julie of Fun in Fairfax VA
One of the most beautiful towns in the Eastern US, Alexandria, Virginia is even more romantic during the Christmas season. In historic Old Town Alexandria, shops and businesses are covered in sparkling and traditional decorations while special events add extra merriment. A lovely mix of Colonial architecture lines the brick and cobblestone streets leading to a scenic waterfront by the Potomac River. That historic charm pairs perfectly with the unique boutiques, restaurants, and bars that fill King Street and the walkable Old Town neighborhood.
Stay in the waterfront Hotel Indigo Old Town Alexandria and you are close to all of the fun. During Christmas week, mingle with shoppers looking for one-of-a-kind gifts at upscale and quirky boutiques. Pop into restaurants like Virtue Feed & Grain to warm up and indulge in a meal or a creative cocktail. Be sure to get a photo with the giant Christmas tree in Market Square. Christmas Day is the perfect time to head across the river to Washington DC where you can visit free holiday decorations like the US Capitol Tree, White House Tree, and the US Botanic Garden. You can also take the water taxi or metro to see the spectacular Christmas show at Maryland’s National Harbor.
Temperatures in the 40s and occasional rainstorms are common, but snow is possible, perfect for romantic Christmas getaways. Dress warmly because you’ll want to be outside in this walkable city. You won’t need a car, since Old Town Alexandria is just 4 miles from Reagan National Airport and is also accessible by Blue Line Metro, Amtrak train, and the Potomac Water Taxi.
15. Gulfport, Mississippi
Recommended by Charles of US Gulf Coast Travel
When looking for a romantic Christmas getaway in the US South, consider Gulfport, Mississippi. Its Gulfport Harbor Lights Winter Festival is the inspiration for the Lifetime rom-com holiday movie Christmas in Mississippi and one of the most fun things to do on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Gulfport Harbor Lights Winter Festival features 1.5 million lights including its famous dancing trees and light tunnels (make sure to take a romantic train ride through them),warming stations (share s’mores with your boo), Santa’s Village, carnival rides, and much more.
While re-creating your own romantic Christmas memories in this annual movie setting is a highlight, there are plenty of other noteworthy holiday happenings in Coastal Mississippi. Check out the Christmas parades and other holiday events in the wonderful small beach towns. The towns include Pascagoula, Ocean Springs, Pass Christian, Biloxi, and Bay St Louis. Also be sure to watch or join one or more of the community holiday boat parades, especially the most popular one in Biloxi. Visit the Mississippi Aquarium and Mississippi Aviation Heritage Museum for inspiration and entertainment.
Gulfport, Mississippi is easy to get to. Visitors can fly into Gulfport Airport on daily flights to and from Atlanta, Houston, and Dallas, and then connect anywhere in the US and the world. New Orleans airport is about 75 minutes away and offers more nonstop flight options. When driving, Gulfport is only a few miles south of I-10 and a little over an hour from Mobile, Alabama, New Orleans, and Hattiesburg, Mississippi.
With average December high temperatures along the Mississippi coast around 64º, you can even get in some beach time. The mild temps are ideal for beach strolls and bike rides.
Two nearby places to stay are the Grand Centennial Hotel (in Gulfport) and Hotel Legends (Biloxi). Suggested restaurants for a romantic meal include The Chimneys (Gulfport), Vestige (Ocean Springs), and White Pillars (Biloxi).
16. US Virgin Islands
Recommended by Catherine of Nomadicated
Why not escape the winter and retreat to a romantic Caribbean paradise this Christmas holiday, sans passport? Choose to spend this holiday season in the US Virgin Islands, where you can enjoy beautiful beaches in ideal weather conditions. In December, there are plenty of things to do. From can’t-miss holiday events to discovering each island’s unique culture and landscapes.
As an American territory, the US Virgin Islands are accessible with no passport or special documentation required. The primary airport for this small island chain is located on St Thomas. From there, prepare to set sail to the territory’s two other islands – St Croix & St John.
When you visit the US Virgin Islands during Christmastime, expect dry and sunny days. You’ll have average temperatures hovering around 80F, with slightly cooler temperatures at night.
Stroll around in decor as all the USVI islands light up with festive cheer. The month-long St. Croix Crucian Christmas Festival and Carnival is the perfect chance to bond over activities like calypso shows, live music, parades, and endless parties.
On St. Thomas, aside from gorging on unique Christmas eats like Guavaberry rum and sweet bread, watch musicians perform at the Challenge of Carols. Finally, don’t miss the annual waterfront boat parade, where passing sailors throw Christmas treats to the crowds.
For a romantic night out on the town, head to The Twisted Cork Café to dine at one of the most iconic Caribbean restaurants around Charlotte Amalie. While you’re there, stay at the Pirates Pension at Bluebeards to experience the island’s pirate history while overlooking the city. It’s the romantic Christmas getaways of your dreams in the US Virgin Islands this holiday season.
17. Helen, Georgia
Recommended by Victoria of Southern Trippers
If you’re looking for one of the most romantic Christmas getaways in the USA then you can’t beat Helen, Georgia. After all, this ethereal, Bavarian-inspired town is the third most visited destination in Georgia after Savannah and Atlanta. And that makes sense since the intricately designed, German-inspired buildings help bring a bit of European charm to Appalachia. Add in a wealth of stunning Christmas lights and a bit of holiday cheer and you have a premiere Christmas destination.
So, start Christmas in Helen, Georgia with a trip to the Christkindlmarkt Christmas Market. It pops up every year towards the end of November, is totally free to visit, and is a great place to shop for one-of-a-kind gifts.
Next, explore local Christmas shops like The Christmas Shoppe and Christmas & More. Before watching Santa drive by while handing out candy during the annual Helen Christmas Parade. Just don’t leave without visiting Hardman Farm State Historic Site. The Victorian mansion on-site is positively brimming over with stunning holiday-inspired décor. Complete with docents strolling around in 1870’s inspired attire.
You can also stop into Cimmi’s Courtyard Cafe to indulge in all-day breakfast and delicious, Appalachian fare that includes biscuits, gravy, hash browns, grits, and more. It’s definitely one of the best restaurants in Helen, GA!
However, be sure to bundle up since temperatures reach highs of 52 F and lows of 32 F in the evening. You’ll also want a waterproof coat of some kind. The town receives around nine days of rain throughout the month. But, once in the town itself be sure to stay inside the Black Forest Bed & Breakfast. It’s a romantic, adults-only, Bavarian-style accommodation that overlooks the Blue Ridge Mountains and that even has a hot tub on-site.
18. St. Petersburg, Florida
Recommended by Me, Tori!
One of our favorite spots in the US for romantic Christmas getaways is St. Petersburg, FL. We lived there for several years, so we know how to have the most magical holiday on the Florida Gulf!
The winter is the best time of the year to visit the “sunshine city” since temperatures are warm year-round. So why not visit during the holidays to have Christmas on the beach?!
The best and most romantic place to stay is right on the water at the Vinoy hotel. It’s one of the two bright pink hotels, and is incredibly beautiful and luxurious. They also have a lovely spa, so book a couples massage to get some relaxing time with your significant other!
Walking along the water on Beach Drive, enjoy the beautiful lights all over the trees throughout the park and really get yourself in the Christmas spirit! There’s tons of delicious restaurants to visit, some of our favorites are Ceviche, Bella Brava, Frescos and Cassis. But for the best seafood in town, head a few blocks inland to Trophy Fish, the food is fresh and so incredibly delicious! It’s our favorite restaurant in downtown St. Pete! There’s tons of great bars in the St. Pete area too including some cool speakeasy’s like Dirty Laundry.
But the most important thing to do for a romantic Christmas getaway in St. Pete is to spend an evening at Enchant, the indoor wonderland. Tropicana Field is filled to the brim each winter with lights, a skating rink, market, delicious food and more! It’s the best way to spend the holidays with your special someone!
19. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Recommended by Me, Tori!
Another place that my husband and I have spent many romantic Christmas getaways at in Myrtle Beach! We love a warm Christmas and Myrtle Beach offers a holiday with your toes in the sand. We love being able ot go to the beach after we finish opening our presents!
Myrtle Beach is definitely a super family friendly vacation destination, but also offers a huge amount of romantic getaway opportunities! I highly recommend staying at the Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes for the most romantic option in town. Plus the spa is located in the hotel so your have easy access to a relaxing afternoon!
As for restaurants, we love Crave Italian Oven & Bar, Sea Captain’s House, Villa Romano, Lombardo’s and Pier 14 Restaurant & Lounge. For something more casual head south to Surfside and eat at Bubba’s Fish Shack or River City Cafe!
But to truly experience the holidays in Myrtle Beach, you have to spend some time doing festive activities. First and foremost, get tickets to the Night of A Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens. It’s the ultimate thing to do for romantic Christmas getaways and just a short drive from Myrtle Beach. Head to these beautiful gardens to see it lit up with, you guessed it, a thousand candles! Plus thousands of Christmas lights all around the property, festive drinks like hot cocoa and cider, music, activities and more! It’s the best way to spend the holidays with your special someone!
20. Asheville, North Carolina
Recommended by Me, Tori!
Quite possibly my absolute favorite option for romantic Christmas getaways in the US would be the beautiful and unique mountain town of Asheville, North Carolina. It was where we spent our first Christmas season together when we were first dating and so it holds a special place in our hearts.
There is a small airport in Asheville that has plenty of flight options from the eastern side of the country. But it’s also just a great road trip destination from any place in the south east! Get a hotel room in downtown and plan to stay a few nights to get a great taste of the area.
Asheville is known for having incredible craft beer, and fun, hippie vibes. Walk around downtown tasting beers, and stop into Bartaco for some of the best food you will ever have, it’s one of our all time favorite restaurants. Yes, it’s a chain, and not local to the area, but this is an exception to the rule, you have to try it! The Baja Fish Tacos, Salsa Verde, and street corn off the cob are my favorite things to get here. And the margaritas? The freshest and most delicious that you’ll find.
For the best Christmas activities, head to the one and only Biltmore Estate! The property is decorated from top to bottom with enchanting Christmas decor. Lights, trees and holly are covering the estate. And do not come to the Biltmore without heading to their winery! Enjoy a wine tasting with your partner and enjoy some time with them sipping your favorite wines.
The 50 states are filled to the brim with incredible, beautiful and extra romantic Christmas getaways for you to explore. Start with one of these magical places this year. Then find some other new places you love over the next several holiday seasons. So go start packing and enjoy a week away with the person you love this Christmas season.
Or, if you’re looking for some of my recommendations for the most romantic getaways year-round, check those out instead!
Save these Romantic Christmas Getaways ideas for the holiday season!
