12 Of The Cutest, Most Festive Small Towns In America For A Picture Perfect Christmas Season
Shamelessly or not, we all look forward to the marathon of Hallmark Christmas movies this time of year. It’s a simple pleasure to indulge in these sappy, predictable films. Better than that, though, would be visiting the types of towns that remind you of the sets of these cute Yuletide tales.
Check out this list of the cutest, most festive small towns in America and plan your Christmas getaway for a holiday you'll never forget.
1. Gatlinburg, TN
Known as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is a quaint mountain town with downright gorgeous scenery. During the winter season, the town lights up in fantastic fashion. Lights Over Gatlinburg is an event that transforms North America’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge into a twinkling tunnel, and the annual Festival of Lights Parade showcases local balloons, floats, and marching bands. Just imagine strolling through these dazzling streets, hot cocoa in hand, with a view of the Smokies.
2. Leavenworth, WA
This tiny Bavarian-style village in the Cascade Mountains is a perfect Christmas town. It is home to a nutcracker museum, after all. The lights in December are absolutely breathtaking. You can meet reindeer at a family-owned reindeer farm, ride in a sleigh, snowshoe, shop at the Christkindlmarkt, and visit the Gingerbread Factory. You’ll probably feel like you’re at the North Pole.
3. Alexandria, VA
The historic port city charms with cobblestone streets, beautiful architecture, and its location on the Potomac River. At Christmas time, the town transforms into a postcard with wreaths, garland, and tartan bows galore. The Christmas tree on Market Square is stunning, and the boat parade on the river is a must-see. With its many renowned cafes and restaurants, you can also eat, drink, and be merry in Alexandria!
4. Beaufort, NC
One of the oldest towns in North Carolina, this adorable coastal spot is the perfect place to shop, stroll, and just slow down. In December, you can weave through the streets on a double-decker bus, touring local homes, while carolers sing. The annual Holiday Market is filled with homegrown, homemade, and handmade goodies that will make the perfect gifts for your loved ones. And the Christmas Parade and Holiday Flotilla really make the season bright.
5. Woodstock, VT
This list could be almost entirely comprised of towns in New England, given that the whole area is essentially a Christmas postcard. Woodstock stands out, though, because of its ridiculous charm and famed Wassail Weekend – an annual event in early December complete with carolers, horse-drawn carriages, a tree lighting, and beautifully adorned farmhouses and historic buildings.
6. Nantucket, MA
Everyone wants to go to the little island of Nantucket in the summertime, but it’s equally alluring in the winter. The annual Christmas Stroll begins the holiday season, and it’s an event you’ll want to attend at least once in your life. Shop for gifts in the adorable boutiques while carolers sing and shopkeepers pass out mulled wine and cookies. A Christmas market, cookie decorating, ice sculptures, and hundreds of decorated Christmas trees make the weekend one to remember. You’ll also want to check out the Festival of Trees at the Nantucket Whaling Museum.
7. Solvang, CA
If you’re a wine connoisseur (or you just really love wine), you’ll love Solvang. This quaint Danish village in Southern California is filled with wineries, bakeries, and shops. Julefest, a merry month-long festival, boasts live music, candlelight tours, a parade, and a local crafts marketplace. It’ll feel like Christmas in Europe!
8. Dahlonega, GA
Dahlonega is literally the set of several Hallmark movies. Enough said, right? This North Georgia town boasts a month-long Christmas extravaganza called Dahlonega’s Old-Fashioned Christmas that begins with a lighting of the town square. Santa visits every weekend, a Christmas Market features delicious homemade baked goods and sweets, and the overall atmosphere could not be more festive.
9. Durango, CO
Almost guaranteed to be a winter wonderland, Durango is the perfect little town to visit around Christmas time – especially if you’re the outdoorsy type. You can spend the day skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, snowmobiling, or even dog sledding. Then hop on board the Polar Express (yes, just like the beloved storybook!) for a cozy ride, a visit with Santa, and, of course, hot chocolate.
10. Williamsburg, VA
One of the cutest towns in America that brings to life our nation’s history, Williamsburg is a beloved destination for tourists throughout the year. At Christmas time, though, the colonial town sparkles even brighter. The Grand Illumination weekends throughout December celebrate the season with processions, bonfires, and fireworks. The historic homes are beautifully decorated (you’ll be obsessed with the wreaths), you’ll be able to shop for everyone on your list, and you can finish the day with ice skating on an open rink in the heart of it all. Don’t forget to hop over to Christmas Town at Busch Gardens to see millions of dazzling lights.
11. Natchez, MS
The Southern charm and hospitality of this town is heightened at Christmas time. The lighting of their 34-foot Christmas tree is impressive (to say the least) and is accompanied by an entire festival complete with a North Pole playground, Santa and Mrs. Claus, and food trucks lining the streets of downtown. You can also tour the beautifully-decorated historic homes throughout the season. And, yes, you will feel like you’re in a Hallmark movie – probably because a Hallmark movie was filmed here!
12. Newport, RI
Not into gaudy Christmas decorations (think blow-up Santas and colored lights)? Then this picture-perfect little seaside city is for you. White lights turn Newport into a classy, old-fashioned, candlelight wonderland. Tour the opulent mansions to see spectacular festive decorations, head to the harbor for the illuminated boat parade, and enjoy the historic traditions of Christmas in Newport – a weeks-long festival that celebrates the non-commercial side of the season.
Of course, these towns are perfect getaway spots all year long, but you will really love visiting when the sounds of Christmas carols and sleigh bells are ringing through the air. You’ll be inspired and gladdened by the wonderful traditions, unbridled merriment, and infectious Christmas cheer of these small town gems.