Published Mar 15, 2020

The One Small U.S. Town Where You Can Still Experience The Old West Today

Tombstone, Arizona offers an immersive Old West experience with historic buildings, reenactments, and family-friendly activities.

Published Mar 15, 2020

Written by

Sophia

Trip Ideas|Small Towns

Updated Oct 30, 2024

Here Are the 15 Most Secluded Towns in the U.S. They’re Delightful

Filled with scenery and loads of charm, the 15 most remote places to live in the U.S. are idyllic destinations to unplug and recharge.

Updated Oct 30, 2024

Written by

Sophia

Sometimes what you really need is to get away from it all. Away from the traffic, pollution, and the neighbor's barking terrier. Whether you're ready to put down roots somewhere as far away as possible from the nearest Starbucks, or you are just looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination, these obscure locales, the most remote places to live in the U.S., are the perfect spots. Here are 15 off-grid towns in the U.S. where you can get away from it all, whether temporarily or permanently.

1. Crested Butte, Colorado

alt — Lupines line a hiking trail at dawn near Crested Butte, Colorado

Our list of the most isolated towns in the U.S. begins in Colorado. Crested Butte is a ski resort town in Colorado that spans only 0.7 square miles. It has a permanent population of 1,434 people and is 21 miles away from the next closest town, Gunnison. Though the town has its own airport and Nordic cultural center, this place is pretty much in the middle of nowhere. That's a plus if you're into pristine ski slopes and stunning starry skies. And if you love wildflowers, you'll want to visit during the annual Wildflower Festival, a 10-day event that's typically held each July.

2. Marfa, Texas

alt — Long exposure photograph taken from Marfa, Texas Observatory on the edge of Highway 90.

Deep in the high desert of west Texas, Marfa has a population of 2,141 and plenty of sky. It's home to an odd work of art: a storefront that resembles a Prada shop. The permanent art display is well worth a visit if you're passing through one of the most peaceful small towns in the U.S. Marfa has also been the filming site of many movies, including "There Will Be Blood" and "No Country For Old Men." Despite this, Marfa is incredibly isolated. There isn't another town west of Marfa for another 500 miles.

3. Eureka, Nevada

Heading east along route 80 towards Elko and Salt Lake City from Reno Nevada United States

Eureka is an old mining town on Highway 50. Its location on a major roadway does little to lessen its seclusion, and the next town is more than 77 miles away. Eureka has a small population of 266 people and, bizarrely, an elaborate opera house. The town has become something of a tourist attraction due to its quaint architecture, but Eureka is by no means crowded. Lovely as the town may be, it's still awfully far from anything else.

4. Jordan Valley, Oregon

A grassy field with a mountain in the background, reflecting a sunset, and a car side mirror in the foreground. — cifraser1 / Flickr

The town may be tiny at only 2.08 square miles, but one thing Jordan Valley isn't lacking is space. Its 135 residents enjoy 30 miles of green valley and mountain range all around. Tourists may stop by to check out the Jordan Crater Field, which is – you guessed it – a field with a bunch of craters in it, but otherwise, Jordan Valley doesn't see many outsiders. If you're looking for a quiet place to go stargazing, you won't find better than Jordan Valley. The lack of light pollution usually makes for clear skies, offering idyllic conditions for gazing at the nighttime sky.

5. Jarbidge, Nevada

A scenic landscape featuring rolling hills, green vegetation, and a blue sky with fluffy white clouds. — Jeremy Michael / Flickr

One of the most remote places to live in the U.S., Jarbidge is right on the outskirts of the Jarbidge Wilderness Area and is only accessible by two dirt roads, one of which is 80 miles long and closes for most of the year due to snow accumulation. If you're going to visit, the best time is undoubtedly the spring, when fields of wildflowers erupt into bloom all around the sleepy town.

6. Kalaupapa, Hawaii

Aerial view of a coastal village with green landscapes, palm trees, and buildings near the water's edge. — Eric Tessmer / Flickr

One of the most beautiful small towns in the U.S., Kalaupapa is an unincorporated community on the island of Molokai, Hawaii's least visited major island. Kalaupapa is located within Kalawao County, the least populous county in Hawaii, according to the most recent census. It can be accessed by sea, air, or mule train. Situated at the base of sea cliffs and nestled right up against the ocean, this tiny town is the perfect tropical getaway for when you REALLY want to get away. Not only is it one of the most remote towns in the U.S., but it's also incredibly scenic.

7. Mentone, Texas

Mentone is the only settlement within Loving County, Texas. It is the least populous county in the country, and Mentone is home to 18 of its 96 residents. There's no grocery store, bank, or even hospital in Mentone. The Loving County Sheriff, Billy Hopper, has been quoted as saying "If you've got to have rattlesnakes or lawyers, which one would you have?" We have a feeling Mentone is happy the way it is.

8. Arthur, Nebraska

Teeny tiny Arthur may not have much of a downtown but it has a lot of heart. Its church is constructed from baled straw, which was once a common method of building in Nebraska. The small courthouse serves as a museum celebrating the history of the town. One of the most remote towns in the U.S. is also home to the Prairie Theater, Petrified Wood Gallery, and Tri-Trails Park, the site where the Oregon Trail, the Pony Express Trail, and the Texas Trail intersected.

9. Winnett, Montana

Winnett has a population of 216 people and is one of the least populous counties in the country. The town convened its third jury EVER in 2007. There isn't much around Winnett, but the people take the history of their town very seriously and are happy to share their stories and dinner tables with visitors. The small town in Montana is known for its cattle and, if you enjoy fishing, you'll find Petrolia Reservoir just southeast of town at Petrolia Reservoir while Yellow Water Reservoir is southwest.

10. Shelter Cove, California

Located on the aptly named Lost Coast, the small town of Shelter Cove experienced severe depopulation in the early half of the 20th century that has left much of the land undeveloped. The approximately 468 people who remain here live in almost complete isolation from the rest of the state. Other small towns on the Lost Coast include Whitehorn and Petrolia. Shelter Cove is an idyllic spot for kayaking, surfing, and marveling at the tide pools.

11. Whittier, Alaska

A snowy harbor scene featuring a wooden building on a pier, surrounded by mountains and calm water. — Valerian Guillot / Flickr

Whittier is only accessible via a 2.6-mile tunnel that is only open from 7 a.m. until 10:45 p.m. daily. The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is more commonly known as the Whittier Tunnel. This small town in Alaska shelters only around 257 people during the brutal winter, and most of the residents live in a single building, the 14-story Begich Towers. If you want to visit, make sure you bring your snow boots; this place gets up to 55 feet of snow per year.

12. Green Bank, West Virginia

This small town in West Virginia may not be geographically isolated, but it's cut off from the rest of the world in one very crucial way: wireless signals are illegal in Green Bank. That means no cell phones, Wi-Fi, or even radios. Furthermore, electronic transmitters of any sort are banned. Say goodnight to that electric blanket. The reason? Green Bank is in the National Radio Quiet Zone, which is a 13,000-square-mile area that the FDC has set aside to allow government radio telescopes to operate without interference. Police roam the streets in Green Bank, checking for illegal wireless signals. If you're looking for one of the best off-grid towns in the U.S., you've just found it. It's an idyllic spot if you want to unplug and recharge, and it's home to the Green Bank Telescope.

13. Angle Inlet, Minnesota

This tiny community is only accessible by entering Canada's Manitoba and then southward into the U.S. Angle Inlet has a population of 54 people and is the only settlement north of the 49th parallel. The town is absolutely lovely in the warmer months when the surrounding woodlands are in bloom and the waters are warm.

14. Supai Village, Arizona

A person stands near a waterfall surrounded by rocky terrain and lush greenery, with water cascading in the background. — Reed Wiedower / Flickr

All of Supai's visitors must come by horse or helicopter or via an eight-mile hike, which is not recommended during the hottest parts of the day. The surrounding landscape is unsuitable for vehicles. It's the only place left in the country where mail is delivered via mule. Even though this tiny village is hard to reach, people still flock to the area to see the spectacular Mooney Falls. Supai is at the top of the list of the most remote towns in the U.S.

15. Utqiagvik, Alaska

Last but not least on our list of the most secluded towns in the U.S. is Utqiagvik. Formerly called Barrow, this remote town is the northernmost human settlement in North America. Temperatures frequently drop below -22 Fahrenheit. It has a fluctuating population of around 4,622 people, and the small town generally experiences two months of total darkness during the winter. Utqiagvik is mainly populated by members of the Inupiat community, and researchers at the Naval Arctic Research Laboratory. You can't reach Utqiagvik by road, so the town's airport is its lifeline to the rest of the world. Utqiagvik is the most secluded town in the United States.

Whittier has always captured my imagination, especially with most of the residents living in one apartment complex. While I've traveled to some remote spots, none are as secluded as Whittier, which sits atop my bucket list. What are your favorite off-grid towns in the U.S.? How about the best small towns in the U.S.? Let us know by filling out this nomination form.

Many of these remote places to live in the U.S. are also near some of the most incredible natural wonders in America. Of course, there are some pretty epic hiking trails in all of these locations. Grab some maps from AllTrails+ before you visit. If you're heading out on a road trip to some of these small towns in the U.S., consult the OIYS road trip essentials packing list.

Trip Ideas|Small Towns

Updated Oct 21, 2024

29 Enchanting Christmas Towns Across America That Are Filled With Holiday Spirit

From Maine to Alaska, these winter wonderlands are some of the best Christmas towns in the USA.

Updated Oct 21, 2024

Written by

Megan Shute

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas – especially in these 29 incredible small towns that look like they were ripped straight from a Hallmark Christmas movie. From picturesque Northeast hamlets covered in a blanket of snow to twinkling wonderlands in the American Southwest, these charming Christmas towns in the U.S. are the perfect place to celebrate the holiday season, whether you’re planning a cross-country getaway to enjoy Christmas lights with long-distance family or want to enjoy a close-to-home wintry day trip to visit Santa Claus.

Featuring everything from Christmas markets to holiday light displays, these small towns across America transform during the holiday season to become magical winter wonderlands full of holiday cheer.

Best Christmas Towns In The Northeast

1. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

A horse-drawn carriage moves through a brightly lit street at night, with festive lights adorning nearby buildings. — Discover Lehigh Valley, PA/Flickr

Nearest City: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Where To Stay: The Sayre Mansion Inn is a delightful historic property within walking distance of Bethlehem’s top attractions.

Named Bethlehem on Christmas Eve in 1741, this small Pennsylvania town is full of holiday charm, and in 1937, it began being recognized as Christmas City, USA. Whether you visit as an annual Christmas tradition or are planning your first-ever day trip, the magic of the holiday season is unmatched in Bethlehem.

While in town, do some holiday shopping at one of the two markets: Christmas Huts on Main inspired by the German Weihnachtsmarkt or Christkindlmarkt, which is one of the nation’s best holiday markets. You can also take a tour with the Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites, experience the town’s Live Advent Calendar, or enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride.

Learn more about Bethlehem, Pennsylvania at Christmastime.

2. Woodstock, Vermont

A snowy street adorned with festive lights and a large Christmas tree, with people walking in the evening. — vermontalm/iStock via Getty Images Plus

Nearest City: Boston, Massachusetts

Where To Stay: The Shire is a riverfront property surrounded by natural beauty.

When you think of your favorite Hallmark movie setting, Woodstock, Vermont might come first to mind. Old-fashioned holiday charm abounds during the annual Wassail Weekend, where you can enjoy an indulgent holiday meal at nearly every restaurant in town, horse-drawn wagon tours, caroling performances as a medieval-style pageant, the “Christmastime Wassail Feast.”

Discover what Christmas is like in Woodstock, Vermont.

3. Lewisburg, West Virginia

Nearest City: Roanoke, Virginia

Where To Stay: The Thomas Rose Inn is one of the most charming places to rest your head in Lewisburg.

With Christmas lights and horse-drawn carriage rides, Lewisburg transforms into a peaceful holiday getaway. Enjoy the Magic of Christmas in Lewisburg with weekly holiday festivities, including visits with Santa Claus, ice carving demonstrations, live music, and a holiday window contest. You will also find opulence at the nearby Greenbrier Resort, an 18th-century resort that features over-the-top decorations and plenty of fun family activities.

Learn even more about Lewisburg, West Virginia in our feature article.

4. Stockbridge, Massachusetts

Nearest City: Albany, New York

Where To Stay: The Stockbridge Country Inn is the closest B&B to the Norman Rockwell Museum.

Made famous by Norman Rockwell’s painting of the village during the holidays, the town of Stockbridge is a quintessential New England Christmas town. The area’s premier event is Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas, which features holiday markets, historic property tours, live performances, light displays, and so much more.

Learn more about Stockbridge, Massachusetts at Christmastime.

5. Annapolis, Maryland

A scenic harbor at sunset, featuring a sailboat, waterfront buildings, and a church steeple against a colorful sky. — Richard T. Nowitz/The Image Bank via Getty Images

Nearest City: Baltimore, Maryland

Where To Stay: Step back in time when you stay at the Historic Inns Of Annapolis, a group of stunning properties in the heart of Annapolis.

Nestled on the Chesapeake Bay near Baltimore Washington D.C., Annapolis might just be the most charming capital city in the United States. It is also one of the best places to celebrate Christmas. With beautifully decorated storefronts, and Christmas wreaths on every lamppost, this is a Charles Dickens town if we’ve ever seen one. Event highlights include the Annapolis Holiday Market, Midnight Madness — select dates when shops are open until midnight — the Grand Illumination of the Annapolis Christmas Tree, and the Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade.

If you are looking for a peaceful escape in Maryland, discover why Annapolis is one of the best options.

6. Newport, Rhode Island

Nearest City: Providence, Rhode Island

Where To Stay: The Hotel Viking is one of the most unique properties we’ve ever seen.

Designed to inspire an old-fashioned candlelit ambiance, Newport, Rhode Island is one of the most charming holiday destinations in New England. The town’s premier event is Christmas In Newport, a two-week celebration of the holiday season that features a plethora of events: a boat parade, holiday bazaar, performances of The Nutcracker, historic tours, and more.

See what all the fuss is about Newport, Rhode Island during the holiday season.

Best Christmas Towns In The Midwest

7. Galena, Illinois

Nearest City: Chicago, Illinois

Where To Stay: The Irish Cottage Inn & Suites is a phenomenal spot for a getaway.

Christmas begins in Galena with the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus and their Jeep Jingle Parade. Stroll down Galena’s Historic Main Street, admire festive storefronts, do some local shopping, and enjoy outdoor adventures. You could spend weeks exploring Galena at Christmastime, but a few days will have to do.

Learn more about Galena, Illinois at Christmastime.

8. Branson, Missouri

Nearest City: Springfield, Missouri

Where To Stay: Enjoy an upscale, lakeside retreat at Chateau On The Lake Resort Spa

Branson, Missouri is one of the Midwest’s premier tourist destinations, especially during the wintertime. The Branson Scenic Railway is decked out for holiday train rides (including a Polar Express ride), the Dolly Parton Stampede has phenomenal holiday dinner shows, and the Miracle of Christmas at Sight & Sound is quite enchanting as well. For even more fun, Silver Dollar City’s An Old Time Christmas is a truly remarkable holiday extravaganza and has been named one of the best theme park holiday events in the country.

Discover what Christmas is like in Branson, Missouri.

9. Frankenmuth, Michigan

A whimsical snowman with a red hat stands in front of illuminated Christmas trees against a blue sky. — auimeesri/iStock via Getty Images Plus

Nearest City: Detroit, Michigan

Where To Stay: This historic home in Frankenmuth is as charming as they come.

Known as Michigan’s Little Bavaria, Frankenmuth has deep German roots and lovely Bavarian architecture that makes you feel like you’ve been transported to Deutschland. It is also home to Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the “World’s Largest Christmas Store,” which measures in at more than 7 acres in size and landscapes grounds covering 27 acres.

The Frankenmuth Visitor's Center is home to a 40-foot Christmas tree, and in Zehnder Park, you’ll find the outdoor Frankenmuth Ice Rink where you can go ice skating. You can even embark on Little Bavaria’s Little Driving Light Tour. How festive!

See what all the fuss is about Frankenmuth, Michigan during the holiday season.

10. Santa Claus, Indiana

Nearest City: Louisville, Kentucky

Where To Stay: Santas Lodge & Resort is full of holiday cheer.

Named after the man of the season himself, Santa Claus, Indiana is a themed wonderland that’s hard to resist at Christmastime. Holiday World offers themed roller coasters, and you’ll find themed holiday attractions galore; shop ‘til you drop at the Santa Claus Christmas Store, wonder at the fantastic light shows that illuminate the area, cheer at the Santa Claus Christmas Parade, and more. This is truly one of the best Christmas towns in America.

Why not extend the fun for another day? An hour away, in French Lick, Indiana, the North Pole Express at the French Lick Scenic Railway is a family favorite.

Learn more about Santa Claus, Indiana at Christmastime.

11. Clifton, Ohio

Nearest City: Columbus, Ohio

Where To Stay: The Mills Park Hotel has its own on-site restaurant.

Christmas in Ohio is truly spectacular — a Midwest gem. And one of the best destinations in Ohio to celebrate the holiday season? The Historic Clifton Mill Legendary Christmas Light Display is one of the country’s best light shows — with more than four million lights illuminating the mill, the gorge, the riverbanks, and even a 100-foot “waterfall” of twinkling lights. This fantastic winter wonderland is also home to a Santa Claus Museum, a Toy Collection, and a synchronized lights and music show.

Discover what Christmas is like in Clifton, Ohio.

12. Red Wing, Minnesota

Nearest City: Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota

Where To Stay: The St. James Hotel is a historic wonder.

Minnesota is a snowy state home to plenty of Christmas cheer, but Red Wing is one of our favorite spots to celebrate. Covered in a blanket of snow and thousands of twinkling lights, visitors can enjoy caroling and carriage rides, the Annual Holiday Stroll, and so much more. The day after Thanksgiving, this old-fashioned Christmas celebration offers meet and greets with Santa and Mrs. Claus as well as baby reindeer plus fireworks, shopping, and a light parade.

See what all the fuss is about Red Wing, Minnesota during the holiday season.

Best Christmas Towns In The Northwest

13. Leavenworth, Washington

A snowy street lined with colorful, festive buildings and twinkling lights, with mountains in the background at dusk. — Joecho-16iStock via Getty Images Plus

Nearest City: Seattle, Washington

Where To Stay: The Bavarian Lodge will transport you to another world.

Leavenworth might just be one of the most popular Christmas towns on this list, and for good reason. This tiny Bavarian-themed town nestled in the Cascade Mountains is bursting with Christmas cheer — Leavenworth sees over 200,000 visitors for its Christmas festivities alone!

With more than 500,000 Christmas lights, carolers, and roasted chestnuts, the festivities kick off the day after Thanksgiving for Christkindlemarkt, and some decorations stay up through Valentine’s Day. Families won’t want to miss a visit to the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm, where you can connect with the festive animals in their care.

Learn more about Leavenworth, Washington at Christmastime.

14. North Pole, Alaska

A large, snow-covered Santa Claus statue stands against a blue sky, surrounded by evergreen trees. — Stuart Westmorland/Corbis Documentary via Getty Images

Nearest City: Fairbanks, Alaska

Where To Stay: North Pole is home to countless cozy cabin rentals like this one.

Is there a town more quintessentially Christmas than North Pole, Alaska? It’s Christmas every day at the Santa Claus House, but during the Christmas season, this Alaska town just a 15-minute sleigh ride from Fairbanks becomes truly spectacular. Take a picture with the World’s Largest Santa — a larger-than-life three-dimensional Santa statue that stands nearly 50 feet tall. Go Christmas shopping for ornaments and toys, tell Santa Claus your Christmas wishes, and admire the snowy landscape outside.

Discover what Christmas is like in North Pole, Alaska.

15. Bozeman, Montana

Aerial view of a snowy town at dusk, with lights illuminating buildings and mountains in the background. — DianeBentleyRaymond/iStock via Getty Images Plus

Nearest City: Billings, Montana

Where To Stay: The Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman is a luxe escape.

Covered in a blanket of snow, Bozeman is home to holiday celebrations and Christmas decorations galore. The Annual Christmas Stroll is a can’t-miss — Santa leads a parade down Main Street to sign carols and light holiday lights. You can also go holiday shopping, do some skiing or snowboarding, or even find the perfect Christmas tree for your very own at-home tree-lighting ceremony.

See what all the fuss is about Bozeman, Montana during the holiday season.

16. Carmel by the Sea, Northern California

Nearest City: San Francisco, California

Where To Stay: Stay by the beach at the Hotel Carmel.

Carmel is one of my favorite places in the world, and I can’t wait to someday visit at Christmastime. Full of Christmas spirit, this small oceanside town near Monterey is full of twinkling lights and holiday decorations, as well as live music and entertainment, boutique shopping, and fun leisure activities — like reading a book by the ocean with a cup of holiday coffee or making a gingerbread house! If you have a creative spirit on your shopping list, you’ll want to check out the local galleries for unique gifts.

Did you know Carmel by the Sea was named one of the most beautiful small towns in California?

17. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Nearest City: Idaho Falls, Idaho

Where To Stay: The Mountain Modern Motel is a picturesque escape.

We love spending Christmas exploring snowy small towns with a cup of hot chocolate in hand, and well, Jackson Hole, Wyoming fits the bill. Take a sleigh ride or snowmobile tour through the mountains and partake in a variety of outdoor activities by day, and by night, take in the local town square — a Christmas village of sorts that is home to unique shops, restaurants, and plenty of festive lights. It's easy to see why Jackson Hole is one of the best places to spend the holidays in the U.S.

Discover what Christmas is like in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

Best Christmas Towns In The Southwest

18. Vail, Colorado

A scenic winter landscape featuring snow-covered mountains, a charming village, and a vibrant sunset sky. — Kruck20/iStock via Getty Images Plus

Nearest City: Denver, Colorado

Where To Stay: The Sebastian is a truly stunning place to stay.

Sledding, snowboarding, and skiing, oh my! Vail is an outdoor lover’s dream during the winter months, but it’s especially beautiful under a sea of twinkling lights and a blanket of snow. With events, festivities, dining, and more, Vail is the definition of postcard-perfect. Notable events include the Vail Ice Skating Spectacular, the Mountain Legacy Parade, the Holiday Tree Lighting in Vail Village, and fireworks to ring in the New Year.

See what all the fuss is about Vail, Colorado during the holiday season.

19. Pawhuska, Oklahoma

Nearest City: Tulsa, Oklahoma

Where To Stay: The Frontier Hotel is close to shopping and lots of holiday festivities.

The home of the Pioneer Woman, Pawhuska might not be on your radar as a Christmas town. With glittering lights, festive storefronts, and the annual Christmas parade of Lights — where you can meet Santa Claus himself — we think Norman Rockwell would fall in love with Pawhuska, and we hope you do, too. This is easily one of the best Christmas towns in the U.S.

Learn more about Pawhuska, Oklahoma at Christmastime.

20. Park City, Utah

A festive street scene at dusk, adorned with colorful lights and snow-capped mountains in the background. — Jason Cameron/Moment via Getty Images

Nearest City: Salt Lake City, Utah

Where To Stay: The Park City Peaks Hotel has a free shuttle to the slopes.

If you’re dreaming of a White Christmas, look no further than Park City. This is one of the best places in the U.S. where it snows for Christmas and it's absolutely beautiful. Go shopping along Main Street when it’s lit up with holiday lights in the evening, hop aboard the North Pole Express at Heber Valley Railroad, or make plans to attend one of Park City’s events: the Tree Lighting Ceremony at Canyons Village, the Electric Parade on Main Street, or play in the mountain snow. This is one of the best Christmas towns in the USA.

Discover what Christmas is like in Park City, Utah

21. Solvang, California

A quaint street lined with European-style buildings and a windmill, featuring crosswalks and greenery. — jmoor17/iStock via Getty Images Plus

Nearest City: Los Angeles, California

Where To Stay: Get away from it all at the Vinland Hotel and Lounge.

Settled by Danish Americans in the early 1900s, Solvang continues to celebrate its Scandinavian roots, and the charm becomes even more apparent during Julefest, the town’s Danish-style holiday celebration, which kicks off on Black Friday and runs through January 6, 2024. With seasonal music, holiday shopping, culinary delights, twinkling lights, and holiday cheer, Solvang is a must-visit day trip destination if you live in Southern California.

See what all the fuss is about Solvang, California during the holiday season.

22. Grapevine, Texas

Nearest City: Dallas, Texas

Where To Stay: The entire family will love your stay at the Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine.

Located near Dallas-Fort Worth is the Christmas Capital of Texas, Grapevine. With 40 days of unique and traditional Christmas events, you’ll be delighted by millions of lights, Texas-sized decorations, animated characters, and so much more. Hop aboard the North Pole Express, admire holiday parades, go skating at the Peace Plaza Ice Rink, or indulge at Dr. Sue’s Chocolate Hot Chocolate Bar for family memories that will last a lifetime.

Learn more about Grapevine, Texas at Christmastime.

23. Santa Fe, New Mexico

A beautifully lit adobe building at dusk, adorned with glowing lanterns on its rooftops. — pkawasaki/iStock via Getty Images Plus

Nearest City: Albuquerque, New Mexico

Where To Stay: The La Posada de Santa Fe is within walking distance of all of our Santa Fe favorites.

Interested in a desert Christmas? See Santa Fe in a new light during the holiday season — with historic traditions and annual celebrations, this is one of the most unique destinations on our list. Go skiing, take in a variety of live performances, and shop local at the Santa Fe Winter Indian Market where more than 150 juried artists sell jewelry, pottery, paintings, weavings, and more. Santa Fe’s favorite tradition — the Canyon Road Farolito Walk — takes place on Christmas Eve, touring historic neighborhoods on the Eastside with millions of Christmas lights.

Discover what Christmas is like in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Best Christmas Towns In The South

24. Greenville, South Carolina

Nearest City: Charlotte, North Carolina

Where To Stay: Stay be the Greenville Haywood Mall at this Marriott property.

With an impressive arts scene, scrumptious restaurants and shopping, and access to nature, there are so many reasons to love Greenville, but we love it most at Christmastime. Go ice skating, attend the Poinsettia Christmas Parade, marvel at the displays made as part of Poinsettia Postcards. or attend the Saturday Market: Holiday Edition.

See what all the fuss is about Greenville, South Carolina during the holiday season.

25. Williamsburg, Virginia

A snow-covered church with a tall steeple, surrounded by bare trees and a cloudy sky. — Greg Meland/ iStock via Getty Images Plus

Nearest City: Norfolk, Virginia

Where To Stay: The Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel is a storybook escape.

If you wish A Christmas Carol would come to life around you, Williamsburg might just be your best bet. This colonial wonderland is truly something special during the holidays, especially when you visit during Grand Illumination, the town’s premier festival of live musical performances and fireworks.

Learn more about Williamsburg, Virginia at Christmastime.

26. Franklin, Tennessee

Nearest City: Nashville, Tennessee

Where To Stay: This cozy cottage is all decked out for Christmas.

Tucked away near Nashville, Franklin, Tennessee was founded in 1799 and named after Benjamin Franklin. While the entire town is lit up for the holiday season, the annual Dickens of a Christmas festival in downtown Franklin is the highlight. The festival brings characters from A Christmas Carol and Oliver Twist to life as you roam the Victorian Village and sample Victorian-era holiday treats.

Discover what Christmas is like in Franklin, Tennessee.

27. Bardstown, Kentucky

Nearest City: Louisville, Kentucky

Where To Stay: The Bardstown Motor Lodge is a nostalgic, renovated gem.

One of the best small towns in the country, Bardstown is known for its history, bourbon, and charm and you can still experience all of those during the holiday and winter seasons.

At Christmastime, this Kentucky town lights up with beautiful decor and festivities. After the town's tree is lit and the parade heads down Main Street, the festive fun continues throughout the season.

See what all the fuss is about Bardstown, Kentucky during the holiday season.

28. Natchitoches, Louisiana

Nearest City: Shreveport, Louisiana

Where To Stay: This lakefront cabin is the ultimate retreat.

This Louisiana town is not only the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase Territory, but since 1927, it has been home to one of the oldest community-based holiday celebrations in the country. Natchitoches holiday traditions include carriage tours through the National Historic Landmark District, weekly fireworks displays, live music and entertainment, and the Christmas Tour of Homes presented by the Natchitoches Historic Foundation.

Learn more about Natchitoches, Louisiana at Christmastime.

29. St. Augustine, Florida

A beautifully lit historic building at dusk, surrounded by palm trees and festive lights, with a vibrant sky above. — SeanPavonePhoto/iStock via Getty Images Plus

Nearest City: Jacksonville, Florida

Where To Stay: The 44 Spanish Street Inn is an adults-only paradise.

You won’t experience a White Christmas in Florida, but that doesn’t mean you can’t explore charming small towns like St. Augustine. The town was named one of the best places to see Christmas lights in the world by National Geographic — with well over a million lights on display throughout the town.

During Nights of Lights, three million white lights glimmer from the sidewalks to the rooftops of approximately 20 city blocks. Other popular events include Luminary Nights, Lighthouse Illuminations, the Holiday Regatta of Lights, and the Colonial Night Watch. If you are searching for some of the best Christmas lights in the U.S., this is it.

Discover what Christmas is like in St. Augustine, Florida.

Tell us, which of these U.S.A. towns will you be visiting this holiday season? Are there any other places you visit that will put you into the holiday spirit? What are your favorite Christmas towns in the U.S.? Let us know! And if you need some cold weather gear for your upcoming holiday adventure, we have you covered!

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on Nov 8

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This Secluded Airbnb Cabin in Oregon Is the Perfect Place for a Digital Detox

A digital detox doesn't have to be a difficult process. This secluded Airbnb cabin in Oregon has everything you need to disconnect and recharge.

Skip the Crowds: Explore Hawaii’s 5 Quietest Trails and Parks This Month

From secluded forest trails to historic coastal paths, these hidden gems offer a serene escape into Hawaii’s lush landscapes and unique history.

by Megan McDonald

on Nov 8

Nature

The Remote Destination in California Where the Drive Is Worth the Final View

Tucked away in California’s Central Valley, Carrizo Plain National Monument is a remote destination where the drive is absolutely worth the final view.

by Megan McDonald

on Nov 8

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1. Crested Butte, Colorado

2. Marfa, Texas

3. Eureka, Nevada

4. Jordan Valley, Oregon

5. Jarbidge, Nevada

6. Kalaupapa, Hawaii

7. Mentone, Texas

8. Arthur, Nebraska

9. Winnett, Montana

10. Shelter Cove, California

11. Whittier, Alaska

12. Green Bank, West Virginia

13. Angle Inlet, Minnesota

14. Supai Village, Arizona

15. Utqiagvik, Alaska

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Best Christmas Towns In The Northeast

1. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

2. Woodstock, Vermont

3. Lewisburg, West Virginia

4. Stockbridge, Massachusetts

5. Annapolis, Maryland

6. Newport, Rhode Island

Best Christmas Towns In The Midwest

7. Galena, Illinois

8. Branson, Missouri

9. Frankenmuth, Michigan

10. Santa Claus, Indiana

11. Clifton, Ohio

12. Red Wing, Minnesota

Best Christmas Towns In The Northwest

13. Leavenworth, Washington

14. North Pole, Alaska

15. Bozeman, Montana

16. Carmel by the Sea, Northern California

17. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Best Christmas Towns In The Southwest

18. Vail, Colorado

19. Pawhuska, Oklahoma

20. Park City, Utah

21. Solvang, California

22. Grapevine, Texas

23. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Best Christmas Towns In The South

24. Greenville, South Carolina

25. Williamsburg, Virginia

26. Franklin, Tennessee

27. Bardstown, Kentucky

28. Natchitoches, Louisiana

29. St. Augustine, Florida

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All Stories

The Secluded Airbnb Cabin in New Hampshire Is the Perfect Place for a Digital Detox

The Breathtaking Small Town State Park in North Carolina That We Can’t Stop Thinking About

This Secluded Airbnb Cabin in Oregon Is the Perfect Place for a Digital Detox

Skip the Crowds: Explore Hawaii’s 5 Quietest Trails and Parks This Month

The Remote Destination in California Where the Drive Is Worth the Final View