If you’re tired of spending Christmas at home in your robe and amidst piles of torn wrapping paper, this might be the perfect year for you to set out on a Christmas vacation.
Among the hundreds of popular Christmas vacation spots across the U.S., here are some ideas that will work for families, couples or singles.
It’s a real train ride. This excursion starts at the Depot in Palestine, Texas, and admits individuals who are at least two years old. Fees range from $19 to $38 each, depending on the type of seating, age of the rider and day of the week.
The Polar Express on the Texas State Railroad was inspired by Chris Van Allsburg’s book. Riders can read along with the story as the train carries them on a roundtrip journey to the “North Pole.” They have the chance to meet Santa, and each child receives a special gift.
Christmas in Washington, DC
There’s so much to do in the nation’s capital that you’ll wish you had stayed longer. Visitors love to wander over to the Ellipse, across from the White House, for a variety of concerts and other events from mid-November through New Year’s.
The lighting of the national Christmas tree on December 1 kicks off a “Pageant of Peace” on the Ellipse each year. Admission is free.
While you’re in Washington, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to visit a number of museums, sample some wonderful cuisine and take in performances at venues like the Kennedy Center and Ford’s Theater.
An Ozark Mountain Christmas
Ever-popular Branson, Missouri, is headquarters for a lovely Christmas in the Ozarks for families or couples. It’s the site of world-class live entertainment and millions of holiday lights. The Christmas season runs from November 1 through December 31 and includes theme park festivals along with lots of outlet and boutique shopping.
Most visitors opt to see the attraction known as The Shepherd of the Hills – Trail of Lights. Also popular is Silver Dollar City, which has been decorated to look like an 1880s attraction. It has a 17-foot talking Christmas tree. It’s also the perfect time to take a drive through the surrounding lakes and mountains.
Christmas at Rockefeller Center
Christmas in New York City can be a family shopping paradise or a romantic adventure just for two. Rockefeller Center’s world-famous Christmas tree will be displayed through January 7.
Visitors will want to make time to take in the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes and Grand Central Terminal’s holiday laser light show. Even if you’ve already bought your holiday gifts, you’ll love meandering among the elaborate window displays. Although Rockefeller Center is in midtown Manhattan, you might want to consider booking accommodations in Brooklyn or New Jersey.
California Wine Country
What could be more romantic? Consider spending your holiday at Auberge du Soleil in Napa Valley. Just 65 miles north of San Francisco, it features a luxurious spa, top cuisine and rooms with a scenic view.
The setting is the slopes of Rutherford Hill. A 33-acre olive grove surrounds the accommodations. If you live in California, it’s a convenient weekend getaway.
Auberge du Soleil’s suites have a Mediterranean décor. For the most romantic stay, reserve one of its private cottages. The French doors swing open to a terrace featuring a sunken hot-tub. In the living room, you’ll find a fireplace and a dining alcove perfect for dinners by candlelight. Suites start at $525 per night.
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