The holiday season is a magical time of year, and what better way to make it even more special than by visiting some of the most festive destinations in the United States?

In this blog post, I’ll take you on a tour of six holiday US destinations and provide hotel options from IHG, Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott to make your stay memorable.

Whether you’re in the Windy City of Chicago, the bustling streets of New York City, the cozy town of Bethlehem, the heart of the Ozarks in Branson, or the charming village of Solvang, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season.

1. Chicago, Illinois

• Christkindltmarket at Wrigley Field: This iconic holiday market offers festive gifts and delicious treats.
• Ice Skating at Maggie Daley Park: Lace up your skates and twirl around the ice with the Chicago skyline as your backdrop.
• Christmas tree exhibition at the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry: See the grandeur of holiday trees from around the world.
• ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
• In Chicago, you can visit the Miracle pop-up bar, which features over-the-top Christmas decor and a creative menu of holiday cocktails.

Hotel Option: Hyatt Thompson Chicago For a luxurious stay in Chicago, consider Hyatt Thompson Chicago. This downtown hotel offers exquisite rooms, a convenient location, and the coolest hotel bar.

Other Hotel Options in Chicago:

• IHG: InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile
• Hilton: Hilton Chicago
• Hyatt: Hyatt Regency Chicago
• Marriott: JW Marriott Chicago

2. New York City, New York

• Rockefeller Christmas Tree: Witness the lighting of the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree.
• Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular: Enjoy a dazzling holiday show.
• Macy’s and 5th Ave. Windows: Marvel at the holiday window displays.
• Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour in Brooklyn
• Nutcracker Ballet at Lincoln Center
• Rolf’s German Restaurant, located in Gramercy Park, Rolf’s transforms into a magical Christmas wonderland.

Hotel Option: Thompson NYC Stay at the Thompson NYC for a chic experience in the heart of Manhattan. The location cannot be beat!

Other Hotel Options in NYC:

• IHG: InterContinental New York Times Square
• Hilton: New York Hilton Midtown
• Hyatt: Grand Hyatt New York
• Marriott: New York Marriott Marquis

3. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

• Experience the German small-town charm with a Christkindlmarkt, ice skating, carriage rides, and tree tours.
• Live Nativity at the Bethlehem Star
• Visit SteelStacks, a former Bethlehem Steel plant turned arts and cultural venue.
• In Bethlehem, The Bookstore Speakeasy is known for its cozy, speakeasy atmosphere and creative cocktails.

Hotel Option: Courtyard Bethlehem Lehigh Valley/I-78 The Courtyard Bethlehem offers comfortable accommodations just a short drive from Bethlehem’s festive attractions.

Other Hotel Options in Bethlehem:

• Marriott: Bethlehem Residence Inn
• IHG: Holiday Inn Express Bethlehem
• Hilton: Homewood Suites by Hilton Bethlehem
• Hyatt: Hyatt Place Bethlehem

4. Branson, Missouri

• Silver Dollar City Old Time Christmas: Enjoy a spectacular holiday light display.
• Polar Express Train: Take a magical train ride with your family.
• Drive through the Gift of Lights display at the Promised Land Zoo.
• While Branson may not have the same type of Christmas pop-up bars as larger cities, you can enjoy holiday-themed drinks at local restaurants and bars like The Paddlewheel.

Hotel Option: Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing Stay at the Hilton Promenade for a comfortable and convenient experience near Branson’s holiday attractions.

Other Hotel Options in Branson:

• Marriott: Marriott’s Willow Ridge Lodge
• IHG: Holiday Inn Club Vacations Ozark Mountain Resort
• Hyatt: Hyatt Vacation Club at The Lodges at Timber Ridge

5. Solvang, California

• Julefest in Solvang: Experience Danish charm and holiday festivities.
• Explore the local wineries and tasting rooms in the Santa Ynez Valley.
• The Landsby’s Mad & Vin. This Scandinavian-inspired boutique hotel often features festive drinks during the holiday season.

Hotel Option: Hilton Hadsten Solvang Tapestry Collection Enjoy a taste of Denmark in the heart of California with a stay at the Hilton Hadsten.

Other Hotel Options in Solvang:

• IHG: Holiday Inn Express Solvang
• Marriott: Santa Ynez Valley Marriott
• Hyatt: Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort

6. Kennebunkport, Maine

• Cape Porpoise Lobster Trap Tree Lighting: Witness a unique tree lighting event.
• Merry Makers Market: Shop for unique holiday gifts.
• Home Tours: Explore beautifully decorated homes in this charming town.
• Explore Dock Square and the quaint shops of Kennebunkport.
• Caroling by Candlelight
• The Burleigh at the Kennebunkport Inn is a charming spot to checkout for a holiday cocktail.

Hotel Option: Holiday Inn Express Wells-Ogunquit-Kennebunk Stay at the Holiday Inn Express for a cozy and comfortable experience in Kennebunkport.

Other Hotel Options in Kennebunkport:

• IHG: Crowne Plaza Portland Downtown Waterfront
• Hilton: Hampton Inn & Suites Kennebunk-Kennebunkport
• Hyatt: Hyatt Place Portland-Old Port
• Marriott: Portland Marriott at Sable Oaks

No matter which destination you choose for your holiday getaway, there are plenty of festive activities. From the glittering streets of New York City to the cozy charm of Bethlehem, these destinations offer a wide range of holiday experiences.

With hotel options from IHG, Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott, you can find the perfect place to rest and recharge after a day of holiday adventures.