Depending on where you land, the holiday season in America plays out like two completely different films. In one, you have the classic city spectacle—ice rinks, towering fir trees, and breath you can see in the air. In the other, the coastlines are sunny, and the only ice you’ll see is in a cocktail.
This guide breaks down 100 destinations across the country to help you find your perfect backdrop. We’ve included budget estimates and category tags for each, plus a unique MessageAR concept—a simple way to leave a digital memory for friends and family at each spot.
Table of Contents
- How to Use This Guide
- Budget Key – What $, $$ and $$$ Mean
- How to Choose Your Perfect Christmas & New Year Destination
- Example Trip Ideas You Can Steal
- Money-Saving Tips for Holiday Travel in the US
- Winter Safety & Logistics Tips
- Snowy Big-City Christmas & New Year
- Storybook Christmas Towns & Villages
- Ski Resorts & Mountain Escapes
- Warm-Weather Christmas & Beachy New Year
- National Parks & Nature Escapes
- Affordable Small Cities & Hidden Gems
- Luxury Blowout Destinations
- Who These Trips Work Best For (Solo, Couples, Families, Groups)
- Quick MessageAR Trip Setup Guide (Step-by-Step)
- FAQs About Spending Christmas & New Year in the USA
- Final Thoughts: Turn Your Holiday Into a Memory People Can Replay
How to Use This Guide
I’ve organized everything by vibe so you can skip straight to what you’re in the mood for—whether that’s big cities, small towns, ski slopes, beaches, or deep nature.
For each spot, I’ve included a budget range ($ to $$$), a quick rundown of what to expect, and a ‘Digital Time Capsule’ idea—basically, a prompt for a video you can record on-site and share via a QR code.
And seriously, don’t try to hit all 100 spots. Just pick the category that speaks to you and start with a few favorites.
Budget Key – What $, $$ and $$$ Mean
Very rough per person per day, excluding flights:
- $ Budget: under $150/day
(Hostels or budget motels, cheap eats, mainly free activities) - $$ Mid-range: $150–$300/day
(Nice hotel/Airbnb, mix of free + paid attractions, some nicer meals) - $$$ Luxury: $300+/day
(Resorts, spa, premium experiences, big-ticket NYE events)
You can absolutely do a cheap version of a $$$ city by staying outside the center and skipping big ticket events.
MessageAR Pro Tip (Use This Once Near the Top)
How to Turn Your Trip Into a Scannable Memory with MessageAR
- Record 3–7 short vertical videos (10–20 seconds) during your trip.
- Upload them to MessageAR and generate a QR code or magic link.
- Print the QR on cards, gift tags, photo prints, ornaments, wine bottles or scrapbooks.
- When someone scans it, they see your trip come to life in AR – like a tiny time portal back to your Christmas and New Year.
You’ll see MessageAR mentioned throughout the article with concrete ideas for each place.
How to Choose Your Perfect Christmas & New Year Destination
A list of 100 places is great… until you have to pick one. Here’s a simple way to narrow it down.
1. Start With Your “Holiday Personality”
Ask yourself (or your group) which statement feels most true:
- “I want a movie-style Christmas.”
→ Think snowy big cities and storybook towns
→ NYC, Chicago, Boston, Leavenworth, Bethlehem, Lake Placid - “I want a calm, cosy Christmas.”
→ Think small cities, cabins, nature escapes
→ Asheville, Savannah, Taos, Smoky Mountains, Yosemite, Joshua Tree - “I want to ski and sit by a fireplace.”
→ Think mountain/ski destinations
→ Aspen, Breckenridge, Vail, Jackson Hole, Big Sky, Stowe, Killington - “I want a T-shirt Christmas on the beach.”
→ Think warm-weather & coastal
→ Miami, San Diego, Honolulu, Maui, Key West, San Antonio, New Orleans - “I want to splurge once, properly.”
→ Think luxury blowouts
→ Napa, Sonoma, Laguna Beach, Big Sur, Lanai, Hilton Head, Naples (FL)
Pick the category first, then shortlist 3 places from that category.
2. Reality Check Your Budget
Use the $, $$, $$$ labels from this guide as a filter:
- If you want to stay around $ / low $$ →
Look at small cities, Christmastowns, some national parks, second-tier cities
(e.g., Asheville, Savannah, Branson, Gatlinburg, Madison, Greenville, Spokane). - If you’re okay with solid $$ →
You can comfortably do: Chicago, Boston, Denver, many ski towns (on a budget), Hawaii islands on a tighter plan, Orlando without going mad on extras. - If you’re going $$$ →
You can look at: Aspen, Vail, Jackson Hole, Napa, Big Sur, Lanai, top-end Hawaii or Florida resorts at peak time.
Quick rule:
If flights are eating more than half your total trip budget, pick somewhere closer or cut your trip by 1–2 days.
3. Decide How Much Chaos You Actually Like
On a scale of 1–10, how much do you enjoy crowds + noise + “big” experiences?
- 8–10:
NYC (Times Square), Miami, New Orleans, Orlando parks, Vegas (if you add it).
→ Book early and accept that crowds are part of the fun. - 4–7:
Denver, Chicago, Boston, Nashville, Honolulu, San Diego, mid-sized ski towns.
→ Bustling but not overwhelming if you avoid the exact midnight hotspots. - 1–3:
Small towns (Leavenworth, Bethlehem, Taos), nature/parks (Smokies, Yosemite, Joshua Tree), quiet beach areas, Big Sur, Lanai.
→ Focus on experiences instead of “the biggest NYE party”.
This one question saves a lot of regret.
Example Trip Ideas You Can Steal
Give readers concrete combos – you can keep or adapt these.
1. Classic “First Time in the US at Christmas” (7–8 Days)
- Base: New York City (6–7 nights, $$–$$$)
- Side trip: One day in Bethlehem, PA or Philadelphia ($–$$)
Vibe: Iconic tree, Broadway or Radio City show, markets and one day in a smaller Christmas city.
MessageAR idea:
Create 3–5 MessageAR videos (Rockefeller tree, a show, snow in Central Park, Bethlehem market) and print the QR codes inside a small photo book you give your family.
2. Snow + National Park Calm (6–7 Days)
- Base: Denver (2 nights, $$)
- Side: Estes Park / Rocky Mountain National Park (3–4 nights, $–$$)
Vibe: City lights and parade at the start, then cabin, snowshoeing and a quiet mountain New Year.
MessageAR idea:
One MessageAR clip per “phase” – city lights, first snowshoe, New Year toast by the fireplace – then a single QR in your year-end recap email.
3. Warm Christmas, Theme Park New Year (7 Days)
- Base: Orlando (5–6 nights, $$–$$$)
- Optional add-on: 1–2 nights in Miami or St. Augustine
Vibe: Mickey-shaped Christmas treats, park parades and fireworks, then either beach/Art Deco in Miami or “Nights of Lights” in St. Augustine.
MessageAR idea:
Record one MessageAR clip leaving each park (“this was our favourite moment today”) and stick the QR on a collage of park tickets/receipts.
4. Low-Stress Christmas in a Small City (4–5 Days)
- Pick one: Asheville, Savannah, Charleston, Greenville, Burlington, Madison (all $–$$).
Vibe: Lights, walkable downtown, independent restaurants, one or two “main attractions”, lots of breathing space.
MessageAR idea:
Film a slow walk down the main street at night and print that QR on the back of a simple postcard:
“Here’s what it actually felt like to be here.”
5. Big Ski + Big New Year (5–6 Days, $$$)
- Base: One of the heavy hitters – Aspen, Vail, Jackson Hole, Big Sky, Sun Valley.
Vibe: Ski all day, hot tubs and fireplaces in the evening, resort-style NYE with fireworks and champagne.
MessageAR idea:
One MessageAR video from the slopes, one from après, one from the New Year toast. Put a single QR on a wooden or metal ski sign you hang at home.
Money-Saving Tips for Holiday Travel in the US
1. Fly on “Weird” Days
- Flights on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or New Year’s Day are often cheaper than the days just before.
- Look at open-jaw flights (into one city, out of another) if it reduces backtracking.
2. Use Second-Tier Cities as Your Base
Instead of:
- NYC → Try Philadelphia, Boston or Providence, then train into NYC for a day.
- Ski resorts near Denver → Stay in Denver or a smaller town and day-trip to ski.
- Honolulu → Stay slightly away from the heart of Waikiki but still on Oahu.
3. Book Main Things Early, Not Everything
Book early:
- Flights, accommodation
- Fixed-date events: theme parks, special dinners, shows, ski rentals at busy resorts
Keep flexible:
- Sightseeing order
- Smaller attractions
- Restaurant choices (except for 24–25–31 Dec)
4. Bundle Your “Big Spend”
Agree on ONE big experience:
- Broadway show / concert
- Full ski day with rentals
- Disney/Universal tickets
- Fancy NYE cruise or rooftop party
Keep everything else simple: walks, markets, street decorations, cheap eats, parks, neighbourhood exploring.
Winter Safety & Logistics Tips (So Your Trip Doesn’t Go Off the Rails)
1. Be Realistic About Driving
- In snowy states, rental cars may need winter tyres or chains, and mountain roads can close.
- If you’re not confident driving in snow, consider:
- Trains/buses between cities
- Airport shuttles to ski towns
- Staying in walkable areas and skipping the car
2. Build “Weather Wiggle Room” Into Your Plans
- Keep at least half a day of slack if you’ve booked something important (flight, show, full-day tour).
- Avoid super-tight connections; a 1–2 hour winter delay is normal.
3. Pack for Being Outside Longer Than You Think
Christmas/New Year often means:
- Standing for lights/parades/fireworks
- Walking between markets and hotels
- Waiting in lines outdoors
Layers, good socks, gloves you can use your phone with, and a thermos can be the difference between “magical” and “never again.”
Snowy Big-City Christmas & New Year
Vibe: Movie-style Christmas, big decorations, big crowds, big energy.
1. New York City, New York — $$–$$$
Rockefeller Center, Fifth Avenue windows, Bryant Park Winter Village and Central Park in the snow make NYC the classic Christmas destination, with Times Square and rooftop parties for New Year’s Eve. Record a short MessageAR panorama of the tree or the skyline and print the QR on your Christmas cards so friends can “stand” there with you.
2. Chicago, Illinois — $$
Chicago blends European-style markets and big-city lights: Christkindlmarket, Millennium Park skating, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival and Navy Pier fireworks on NYE. Film a MessageAR clip of you sipping hot chocolate at the market and stick the QR on a souvenir ornament box.
3. Boston, Massachusetts — $$
See the Boston Common tree, skate at Frog Pond, wander Quincy Market at night and celebrate “First Night” with parades and fireworks on New Year’s Eve. Capture part of the fireworks in a MessageAR video and tuck the QR into a printed photo of the skyline.
4. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania — $–$$
Dilworth Park transforms with an ice rink and holiday market, Macy’s runs its classic light show and Longwood Gardens (nearby) goes all out with lights. New Year’s brings fireworks and the colourful Mummers Parade. Record a MessageAR clip of the parade and hide the QR in a scrapbook page.
5. Washington, D.C. — $–$$
See the National Christmas Tree and menorah, ZooLights and illuminated monuments, then ring in the New Year along The Wharf or at a hotel gala. Film a MessageAR greeting in front of the tree or Lincoln Memorial and print the QR on your New Year cards.
6. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania — $–$$
A giant tree and ice rink at PPG Place, a holiday market in Market Square and fun inclines up to city viewpoints make Pittsburgh an underrated Christmas city. Film your incline ride with MessageAR and attach the QR to a postcard showing the skyline.
7. Minneapolis–St. Paul, Minnesota — $–$$
Expect real winter: Holidazzle Village, riverfront lights and the massive Mall of America for indoor fun. Use MessageAR to record “this is what -15°C looks like” and embed the QR in your year-end email as proof.
8. Denver, Colorado — $$
Parade of Lights, a cosy Christkindlmarket and the Mile High Tree light shows give Denver great holiday atmosphere, plus you’re close to ski day trips. Record a MessageAR video under the Mile High Tree and put the QR on your travel journal cover.
9. Detroit, Michigan — $–$$
Campus Martius Park with its rink and tree, downtown lights and easy side trips to Frankenmuth (Little Bavaria) make Detroit a solid, affordable choice. Capture one lap around the rink on MessageAR and print the QR inside a family photo card.
10. Cleveland, Ohio — $
“A Christmas Story” house, downtown lights and winter waterfront views combine into a nostalgic holiday trip. Recreate a tiny scene from the movie as a MessageAR clip and hide the QR on a gift tag for a fan.
11. Milwaukee, Wisconsin — $–$$
Christkindlmarket, lakefront views, lights and cosy brewery nights make Milwaukee feel like a smaller, friendlier Chicago. Do a mini beer-tasting review on MessageAR and stick the QR to a six-pack you bring home as a gift.
12. Kansas City, Missouri — $
Country Club Plaza’s famous lights, Union Station decorations and Crown Center ice rink give KC a big visual punch at a lower price point. Film a MessageAR drive through the Plaza lights and place the QR on a simple printed map.
13. St. Louis, Missouri — $
Botanical garden lights, brewery displays and Ballpark Village events make St. Louis a good central option. Record a MessageAR greeting under the Gateway Arch and print the QR in your Christmas letter so people can scan and join you.
14. Indianapolis, Indiana — $
Monument Circle becomes a “tree of lights”, plus Christmas at the Zoo and family-friendly New Year celebrations. Capture the circle in a MessageAR video and stick the QR on a family wall calendar.
15. Portland, Maine — $–$$
Cobblestone streets, harbour views and an excellent food scene make Portland a charming, compact Christmas city. Film a MessageAR clip along the lit waterfront and add the QR to a printed recipe card for clam chowder or lobster rolls.
Storybook Christmas Towns & Villages
Vibe: Hallmark movie. Small, walkable, and decorated like crazy.
16. Leavenworth, Washington — $$
A Bavarian-style alpine village that turns into “Christmastown” with half a million lights, carolers and markets. Record a MessageAR stroll through the glowing streets and print the QR on your gift tags so people can scan and see where their present came from.
17. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania (“Christmas City USA”) — $–$$
German-style markets, Moravian stars in the windows and historic tours make Bethlehem feel like a living Christmas postcard. Film your ornament shopping with MessageAR and stick the QR onto the ornament’s storage box.
18. Frankenmuth, Michigan — $–$$
“Little Bavaria” is home to Bronner’s (a giant year-round Christmas store), horse-drawn carriages and festive riverboats. Capture a MessageAR clip among the decorations and add the QR to your tree skirt so your tree “remembers” the trip.
19. Santa Claus, Indiana — $
A town named Santa Claus, with a Santa museum, themed shops and drive-through light displays – very kid-friendly. Record kids meeting Santa with MessageAR and attach the QR to a framed photo.
20. North Pole, Alaska — $$
Visit Santa Claus House, see reindeer and, if you’re lucky, chase Northern Lights around Fairbanks. Even if the aurora doesn’t show, record a MessageAR “we tried!” clip and put the QR on your travel journal.
21. Branson, Missouri (Ozark Mountain Christmas) — $–$$
Branson goes big on Ozark Mountain Christmas with live shows, drive-through light displays and Silver Dollar City’s millions of lights. Capture a MessageAR moment in the park’s light tunnel and hide the QR in a family board game box you bought there.
22. McAdenville, North Carolina (“Christmas Town USA”) — $
This tiny town near Charlotte is covered in lights; you can drive or walk slowly through it. Film a MessageAR car-window tour and share that QR in your family WhatsApp group.
23. Williamsburg, Virginia — $–$$
Colonial Williamsburg decorates with traditional greenery and candles, and nearby Busch Gardens runs “Christmas Town” events and rides. Record a half-historic, half-theme-park MessageAR clip and add the QR to your New Year cards.
24. Woodstock, Vermont — $$
Wassail Weekend brings parades, carriages and decorated historic homes to this picture-perfect New England town. Capture sleigh bells at dusk with MessageAR and place the QR on a printed photo of Main Street.
25. Mystic, Connecticut — $–$$
A maritime town where Mystic Seaport runs lantern-lit evenings and boats sparkle in decorated marinas. Film a MessageAR walk along the docks and stick the QR on a postcard for someone who loves the sea.
26. Durango, Colorado — $–$$
Take the Polar Express train, explore the historic downtown and ski at Purgatory Resort nearby. Use MessageAR to record the train ride and attach the QR to a tin of hot chocolate you gift later.
27. Park City, Utah — $$–$$$
Main Street lights, ski resorts and torchlight parades make Park City great for both Christmas and NYE. Film a MessageAR clip from a chairlift and put the QR on your New Year party invites.
28. Gatlinburg, Tennessee — $–$$
Smoky Mountain Winterfest lights, a glass sky bridge and family attractions make Gatlinburg a very kid-friendly destination. Record a MessageAR walk over the lit sky bridge and hide the QR in your family photo album.
29. Lake Placid, New York — $$
Frozen Mirror Lake, dog sledding and Winter Olympic history turn Lake Placid into a proper winter wonderland. Use MessageAR to capture a snowy lakeside walk and stick the QR on a homemade “Olympic medal” for the kids.
30. Taos, New Mexico — $–$$
Farolitos (paper lanterns), Indigenous and Hispanic traditions, art galleries and Taos Ski Valley give you a unique holiday experience. Record a quiet MessageAR moment under lanterns and send the QR as a text on Christmas Eve.
Ski Resorts & Mountain Escapes
Vibe: Snow, fireplaces, sore legs and hot drinks. Most of these are $$–$$$ by nature, but can be done cheaper with off-mountain stays.
31. Aspen, Colorado — $$–$$$
Upscale ski town with four mountains, designer shops and torchlight parades. Record a MessageAR clip by a firepit and put the QR on a bottle of wine you bring home.
32. Vail, Colorado — $$–$$$
Pedestrian alpine village, lots of terrain and big New Year’s celebrations. Film a MessageAR walk through the village at night and attach the QR to a postcard for ski-loving friends.
33. Breckenridge, Colorado — $$
Friendly Victorian town with good skiing and a relaxed vibe. Capture Main Street under fresh snow with MessageAR and put the QR on a printed photo in your hallway.
34. Steamboat Springs, Colorado — $$
Powder skiing, hot springs and a cowboy-flavoured town centre. Record a MessageAR “steam and snow” clip in the hot springs and stick the QR into your travel notebook.
35. South Lake Tahoe, California — $$
Ski by day, casino lights and lake views by night. Shoot a MessageAR sunset over the lake and print the QR on your New Year’s invitations.
36. Jackson Hole, Wyoming — $$–$$$
Steep terrain, elk antler arches and access to Grand Teton winter landscapes. Capture a MessageAR video under the lit arches and place the QR on a cowboy-hat ornament.
37. Big Sky, Montana — $$–$$$
Huge ski area with fewer crowds and big sky sunsets. Film a MessageAR panorama from a high ridge and print the QR on a small canvas photo.
38. Sun Valley, Idaho — $$–$$$
Historic American ski resort with a cosy town and ice rink. Record a MessageAR clip at the rink and hide the QR on a bookmark.
39. Stowe, Vermont — $$
Classic New England with church steeple, covered bridges and good skiing. Capture a light snowfall on Main Street via MessageAR and attach the QR to a bag of maple candy.
40. Killington, Vermont — $$
Big East Coast mountain with lively après-ski. Film a MessageAR countdown from the base lodge and share the QR in your group chat.
41. Mammoth Lakes, California — $$
Reliable snow and huge views over the Sierra. Record a MessageAR video from the gondola and place the QR on a Polaroid from the top.
42. Snowshoe, West Virginia — $–$$
Mountaintop village with skiing, tubing and fireworks some years; more budget-friendly than many western resorts. Capture a tubing run with MessageAR and stick the QR on a note to the kids.
43. Whitefish, Montana — $–$$
Chill ski town near Glacier National Park with a walkable main street. Film the main street in the snow using MessageAR and keep the QR on a fridge magnet.
44. Ogden, Utah — $–$$
Historic 25th Street + access to Snowbasin and Powder Mountain; a smart base for Utah snow on a budget. Record a MessageAR montage: one clip downtown, one on the slopes, and share one QR as a highlight reel.
45. Lake Placid (Ski & Olympics), New York — $$
Olympic jumps, Whiteface Mountain and winter-sports heritage. Capture a MessageAR video outside an Olympic venue and stick the QR on a medal-shaped cookie or decoration.
Warm-Weather Christmas & Beachy New Year
Vibe: No snow. Palm trees, pool days and fireworks over water.
46. Miami, Florida — $$–$$$
Boat parades, decorated palms and huge South Beach and downtown parties for New Year’s Eve. Record a MessageAR “Christmas in a T-shirt” clip and print the QR on a postcard to your coldest friend.
47. Orlando, Florida — $$–$$$
Theme parks (Disney, Universal, SeaWorld) go all-in on Christmas shows, parades and fireworks, plus massive NYE events inside the parks. Capture your favourite moment from a park on MessageAR and stick the QR on a collage of tickets.
48. Key West, Florida — $$–$$$
Tropical lights, quirky parades and the famous shoe drop on Duval Street at New Year’s, plus sunsets at Mallory Square. Film a MessageAR sunset and add the QR to a bottle of hot sauce you gift from the trip.
49. St. Augustine, Florida — $–$$
“Nights of Lights” covers the historic town in white lights; it feels like a glowing seaside Christmas village. Record a MessageAR walk through the plaza and place the QR on your Christmas cards as a bonus light show.
50. San Diego, California — $$
Harbour light parades, beach walks and mild weather make San Diego perfect if you want Christmas without frostbite. Capture a MessageAR clip of Christmas morning at the beach and include the QR in your year-in-review email.
51. Los Angeles, California — $$
Decorations at The Grove, Rodeo Drive and theme parks, with big New Year’s events at Grand Park and coastal spots. Film a MessageAR video from Santa Monica Pier at sunset and print the QR on a photo strip.
52. Palm Springs, California — $$
Desert sunshine, mid-century hotels and nearby hikes – a stylish, slow Christmas and New Year option. Record a MessageAR room tour or poolside toast and stick the QR in your travel scrapbook.
53. Scottsdale / Phoenix, Arizona — $–$$
ZooLights, luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden and patio dining in cool desert evenings. Capture glowing lanterns and cacti with MessageAR and add the QR to a cactus-themed Christmas card.
54. Sedona, Arizona — $$
Red rock views, quiet hikes and spiritual retreats; this is a reflective holiday destination. Film a MessageAR sunrise over the rocks and send the QR as a New Year intention to someone special.
55. Honolulu / Waikiki, Oahu — $$–$$$
Honolulu City Lights, palm trees dressed up, Waikiki’s holiday trolley and fireworks over the ocean on New Year’s Eve. Record a MessageAR video at the beach at midnight and stick the QR on a seashell or postcard you mail home.
56. Maui, Hawaii — $$$
Whale-watching season, resort Christmas dinners and coastal fireworks for New Year’s in places like Wailea or Kaʻanapali. Capture your first whale sighting on MessageAR and put the QR on a piece of driftwood or canvas print.
57. Kauai, Hawaii — $$–$$$
Lush and quieter, with small-town parades, waterfalls and beaches. Film a MessageAR clip at a waterfall and attach the QR to a handwritten note about slowing down.
58. San Antonio, Texas — $–$$
The River Walk glows with lights, mariachi music fills the air and New Year’s Eve is festive but manageable. Record a MessageAR boat ride along the river and print the QR in your family photo card.
59. Austin, Texas — $–$$
Zilker Park’s Trail of Lights, live music everywhere and a chill NYE scene. Capture a MessageAR street-music clip and add the QR to your “songs of the year” playlist graphic.
60. New Orleans, Louisiana — $$
Reveillon dinners, French Quarter decorations, Jackson Square lights and fireworks over the Mississippi on New Year’s. Film a MessageAR jazz snippet and hide the QR in a Christmas card so recipients can hear it.
National Parks & Nature Escapes
Vibe: Quiet, scenery, stars. Less party, more presence.
(Always check NPS for winter roads and safety.)
Most can be done at $–∗∗ifyoucamporstaycheaply;lodgespushitto∗∗** if you camp or stay cheaply; lodges push it to **∗∗ifyoucamporstaycheaply;lodgespushitto∗∗.
I’ll keep each one short + a MessageAR angle.
61. Yosemite National Park, California — $–$$
Snow-dusted cliffs and a quiet valley make Yosemite magical in winter. Capture a MessageAR panorama from Tunnel View and stick the QR on a printed park map.
62. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona — $–$$
Cold but dramatic, and much less crowded. Film a MessageAR sunrise or sunset at the rim and add the QR to your travel notebook.
63. Zion National Park, Utah — $–$$
Red cliffs in crisp air, fewer crowds, and some low-elevation hikes still open. Record a MessageAR moment at a viewpoint and put the QR on a minimalist print at home.
64. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah — $–$$
Hoodoos covered in snow look surreal. Capture a slow spin at an overlook with MessageAR and hide the QR in a Christmas card.
65. Yellowstone (winter tours), WY/MT/ID — $$
Geysers steaming in snow and winter wildlife, often via snowcoach. Record Old Faithful on MessageAR and stick the QR on a mug or thermos.
66. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming — $–$$
Jagged peaks, winter safaris and cross-country skiing; often paired with Jackson Hole. Capture a MessageAR shot of the Tetons and keep the QR in your travel journal.
67. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado — $–$$
Snowshoeing from Estes Park, elk and frozen lakes. Record Bear Lake on MessageAR and include the QR on a postcard.
68. Great Smoky Mountains, NC/TN — $–$$
Misty ridges, cabins and winter hikes to frozen waterfalls. Capture a MessageAR clip from a foggy overlook and attach the QR to your cabin guestbook or family note.
69. Acadia National Park, Maine — $–$$
Rugged coastline, lighthouses and serious cold; very atmospheric. Film waves crashing on MessageAR and put the QR on a lighthouse print.
70. Everglades National Park, Florida — $–$$
Dry season is great for wildlife; think airboats, birds and gators instead of snow. Record a MessageAR wildlife sighting and hide the QR in a kid’s nature scrapbook.
71. Joshua Tree National Park, California — $–$$
Desert stars, odd rock formations and boho cabins. Capture a night-sky MessageAR video and stick the QR on a Polaroid of your cabin.
72. Olympic National Park, Washington — $–$$
Rainforests, mountains and wild beaches in one trip. Record surf at a wild beach on MessageAR and attach the QR to a pebble or shell frame.
73. Big Bend National Park, Texas — $–$$
Remote canyons, Rio Grande views and an enormous night sky. Capture a MessageAR clip in Santa Elena Canyon and put the QR in your New Year journal.
74. Glacier National Park, Montana (winter) — $$
Limited access but stunning in deep winter if you’re prepared. Record a MessageAR video at Lake McDonald’s shore and add the QR to a simple postcard.
75. Redwood National & State Parks, California — $–$$
Giant trees and ferns, especially moody in winter mist. Film yourself looking up at the trees with MessageAR and hide the QR inside your favourite book as a secret “forest portal.”
Affordable Small Cities & Hidden Gems
Vibe: Festive but not overwhelming. Most are $–$$.
76. Asheville, North Carolina — $–$$
Biltmore Estate’s Christmas displays, craft breweries and Blue Ridge views. Capture a MessageAR clip of the Biltmore tree or a mountain overlook and put the QR on a sticker in your notebook.
77. Savannah, Georgia — $–$$
Spanish moss, historic squares and riverfront lights create a soft, romantic Christmas atmosphere. Record an evening walk with MessageAR and print the QR on a vintage-style postcard.
78. Charleston, South Carolina — $–$$
Candlelit home tours, harbour views and incredible Lowcountry food. Capture Rainbow Row at dusk with MessageAR and attach the QR to a recipe card for shrimp and grits.
79. Burlington, Vermont — $–$$
Church Street Marketplace, Lake Champlain and indie cafés; very cosy. Record a MessageAR clip of snow over Church Street and tuck the QR into your holiday email.
80. Providence, Rhode Island — $–$$
Creative, compact and walkable, with riverfront lights and easy access to Boston or Newport. Use MessageAR to film the riverside and add the QR to your planner.
81. Boise, Idaho — $–$$
Walkable downtown, foothills backdrop and a growing food scene. Capture a sunset overlook on MessageAR and stick the QR on your fridge.
82. Spokane, Washington — $–$$
Riverfront Park, waterfalls and nearby skiing make Spokane a smart affordable base. Record the lit-up falls with MessageAR and place the QR in a family album.
83. Albuquerque, New Mexico — $–$$
Luminarias in Old Town, occasional hot-air balloons and Route 66 neon. Capture lantern-lit streets with MessageAR and attach the QR to a travel bookmark.
84. Tucson, Arizona — $–$$
Desert sunsets, Spanish missions and Saguaro National Park; peaceful and reflective. Film a MessageAR sunset among cacti and put the QR on your New Year card.
85. Omaha, Nebraska — $–$$
Old Market lights, a strong zoo and a warm Midwestern feel. Record a carriage ride with MessageAR and stick the QR on a magnet.
86. Madison, Wisconsin — $–$$
Capitol Square lights, frozen lakes and college-town energy for NYE. Capture a MessageAR spin on the ice and drop the QR into your year-end recap.
87. Raleigh, North Carolina — $–$$
A growing city with festivals, breweries and easy day trips. Record a MessageAR clip at a holiday market and attach the QR to a printed photo strip.
88. Richmond, Virginia — $–$$
Famous for its “Tacky Light Tour” of heavily decorated homes plus historic streets. Film the brightest house on MessageAR and tuck the QR onto a printed map of the route.
89. Nashville, Tennessee — $–$$
Country music Christmas shows, Gaylord Opryland’s indoor light extravaganza and a big downtown NYE party. Capture a MessageAR honky-tonk moment and add the QR to a guitar-shaped card.
90. Greenville, South Carolina — $–$$
A charming Main Street with lights, a riverfront park and a very walkable downtown. Record a MessageAR clip from Liberty Bridge and print the QR on a small photo.
Luxury Blowout Destinations
Vibe: Treat yourself. Mostly $$–$$$ and up.
91. Napa Valley, California — $$–$$$
Wine tastings, spa resorts and cosy tasting-room dinners make Napa perfect for a quiet but indulgent holiday. Film a MessageAR vineyard walk and put the QR on a bottle you gift later.
92. Sonoma County, California — $$–$$$
Redwoods, coast and wineries in a slightly more relaxed setting than Napa. Record waves and vines on MessageAR and attach that QR to a holiday cheese board or cutting board.
93. Laguna Beach, California — $$–$$$
Clifftop walks, art galleries and oceanfront resorts; New Year’s Eve here is all about sea views and great food. Capture a MessageAR sunset and place the QR on a framed photo.
94. Key Largo / Upper Florida Keys — $$–$$$
Reef trips, tiki bars and sunset cruises; warm, salty Christmas and New Year. Record a MessageAR snorkel exit video and hide the QR on a shell frame.
95. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina — $$–$$$
Golf, bike paths, beaches and resort holiday programming; very family-friendly. Capture a beach walk in a sweater on MessageAR and attach the QR to a printed family photo.
96. Naples / Marco Island, Florida — $$–$$$
Upscale Gulf Coast towns with boat parades, fine dining and resort fireworks. Record your New Year toast on the sand on MessageAR and put the QR on a champagne cork shadow box.
97. Vero Beach, Florida — $$–$$$
Smaller, quieter and polished; ideal if you want ocean without chaos. Capture a sunrise with MessageAR and keep the QR in your shared journal.
98. Big Sur, California — $$–$$$
Clifftop lodges and cabins, dramatic coastal drives and big waves. Film a MessageAR clip of waves crashing below the cliffs and tuck the QR into a printed quote you keep on your desk.
99. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts — $$–$$$
Off-season is quiet and romantic, with cosy inns and empty beaches. Record a MessageAR walk along a windy shoreline and place the QR on a postcard you send to one special person.
100. Lanai, Hawaii — $$–$$$
Tiny, calm and indulgent island with very little noise; perfect for a spa-style New Year. Capture a simple MessageAR “Happy New Year from paradise” clip and print the QR on a plain white card – it doesn’t need more decoration.
Who These Trips Work Best For (Solo, Couples, Families, Groups)
Solo Travellers
Great fits:
- Small cities & Christmastowns – easier to meet people, feel safe, never too overwhelming
- Nature & national parks – introspective New Year
Look for hostels, walking tours, group hikes and brewery tours where conversation is natural.
MessageAR twist:
Create a “message to my future self” in one of these places. Stick the QR in your journal and scan it next Christmas to hear your own voice from this trip.
Couples
Great fits:
- Romantic small cities & coastlines – Charleston, Savannah, Asheville, Kauai, Big Sur, Napa
- Cosy cabins & ski towns – Stowe, Lake Placid, Jackson Hole, Smokies cabins
MessageAR twist:
Record a quiet, personal MessageAR clip (not for social media) – maybe your New Year promise to each other – and put the QR on something you both keep, like a framed photo or a page in your shared planner.
Families (With Kids)
Great fits:
- Orlando & theme parks
- Christmastowns – Leavenworth, Santa Claus, Branson, Bethlehem
- Walkable light-filled cities – Asheville, San Antonio, Savannah, Greenville
MessageAR twist:
Give each kid a “memory card” – a printed card with a QR that plays their favourite moment (meeting Santa, first snow, first ride). It becomes their own mini time capsule.
Groups of Friends
Great fits:
- Big cities – Chicago, Nashville, New Orleans, Denver
- Ski towns – Breckenridge, Mammoth, Killington
- Beach cities – Miami, San Diego, Honolulu
MessageAR twist:
Each friend records one short clip explaining their favourite moment. Stitch them into a single MessageAR video and use one QR code in your shared photo album or Google Doc.
Quick MessageAR Trip Setup Guide (Step-by-Step)
You don’t have to go deep into tech – this is all you really need:
1. Plan What You Want to Capture
Decide on 3–7 key moments ahead of time:
- Tree lighting
- First snow or ski run
- Fireworks or New Year countdown
- A special meal
- A hike or viewpoint
- Kids meeting Santa
2. Record Vertical, 10–20 Second Clips
Short is better. Imagine someone scanning the code while holding a coffee – they’ll happily watch 20 seconds, not 2 minutes.
3. Upload and Generate Your MessageAR Experience
- Upload your videos to MessageAR
- Choose how people open it: QR code, magic link, NFC, etc.
- Add a short title or greeting if the platform lets you
4. Print or Place the Code Where It Matters
- On a physical Christmas or New Year card
- On a gift tag or inside a photo book
- On an ornament, magnet or wine bottle
- In a scrapbook, fridge note, or travel journal
5. Share the “Magic Trick”
Write a small note like:
“Scan this code with your phone to see where we spent Christmas.”
or
“Scan this to watch our New Year countdown.”
6. Revisit It Next Year
Bring those cards, ornaments or photos back out next December. Scan again, relive the trip and add a new MessageAR code for this year’s holiday. That’s how a one-time vacation becomes a little tradition.
FAQs About Spending Christmas & New Year in the USA
1. When should I book flights and hotels?
For popular places (NYC, Orlando, ski resorts, Hawaii), aim for 3–6 months in advance if you want decent prices and good hotel options. Smaller towns and second-tier cities can sometimes be booked later, but Christmas–New Year is peak season almost everywhere, so earlier is safer.
2. Are most places open on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day?
It depends:
- Big cities & tourist hubs – some attractions, restaurants and stores stay open with special hours.
- Small towns & rural areas – more closures so staff can be with family.
Always check opening hours for museums, markets, tours and restaurants and pre-book any crucial meals (Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve).
3. How expensive is it really to travel at Christmas and New Year?
Short answer: it’s one of the most expensive times of the year, especially for flights and ski destinations. To reduce pain:
- Choose $ or low-$$ destinations from this list
- Stay slightly outside the hottest area and commute in
- Pick one big paid experience and keep the rest low-cost (lights, walks, free events)
4. Is it better to pick one base or move around?
With a week or less, it’s usually better to pick one main base and maybe one side trip:
- NYC + a day in Bethlehem or Philly
- Denver + a few nights in Estes Park
- Orlando + 1–2 nights in Miami or St. Augustine
Constant hotel hopping during winter is tiring and eats time, especially if there’s snow or holiday traffic.
5. What should I pack for a winter trip?
For cold/snowy areas:
- Waterproof or water-resistant boots
- Warm coat, hat, gloves and scarf
- Thermal base layers for northern or mountain destinations
- One nice outfit for a show or New Year’s Eve
- Power bank (you’ll be filming and mapping a lot)
For warm/beach destinations:
- Usual warm-weather clothes
- Light jacket or sweater for evenings
- Something slightly dressy if you’re doing a nicer dinner or NYE event
6. Are these destinations kid-friendly?
Most are. Particularly good for kids:
- Theme-park hubs like Orlando, San Diego
- Christmastowns like Leavenworth, Santa Claus, Branson, Bethlehem
- Walkable cities like Asheville, San Antonio, Savannah
Nightlife-heavy places like Miami South Beach and New Orleans French Quarter are better with older kids, or with careful hotel and timing choices.
7. How exactly do I use MessageAR on a trip?
The simplest pattern:
- Record 3–7 short vertical videos during the trip
- Upload them to MessageAR and get a QR code
- Print the QR on cards, photos, gift tags or ornaments
- Give those to friends and family so they can scan and step into your trip whenever they like
You’re basically turning your holiday into a set of small, scannable “portals” to your favourite moments.
8. How many MessageAR videos should I create?
You don’t need dozens. Three to seven is usually perfect:
- 1× arrival “hello from here”
- 1–2× Christmas moments
- 1–2× New Year moments
- 1–2× personal highlights
That’s enough to tell the story of your trip without overwhelming the person scanning.
Turn Your Holiday Into a Memory People Can Replay
You don’t need to hit all 100 places on this list. You just need one destination that matches your personality, your budget and your energy level:
- Big city or small town
- Ski slopes or palm trees
- Party or peace
Once you pick it, the important thing isn’t ticking off every attraction. It’s paying attention to a few real moments:
- The walk back to the hotel while it’s snowing
- The quiet five minutes before midnight
- The first time your kid sees the tree or the ocean
- The laugh you can’t quite explain in words later
That’s exactly where MessageAR fits:
- You capture a tiny slice of that moment on video
- You hide it in a QR code on a card, gift, ornament or photo
- Weeks or years later, someone scans it and suddenly they’re standing “there” with you again
Whether you spend Christmas under the Rockefeller tree, on a ski lift in Colorado, in a lantern-lit New Mexico town or on a Hawaiian beach at midnight – you can make those days last much longer than the holidays themselves.
Pick your place. Pack smart. Record a few honest moments.
And give the people you love the kind of memory they can literally scan and replay whenever they miss you.
