Christmas vacation ideas for couples
Enjoying a Christmas for two this year? Check out these Christmas vacation ideas for couples to find the perfect holiday destination.
Close your eyes.
It’s Christmas Eve, and you’re snuggled up in front of the fire, listening to the pop and crackle as the wood burns. Silent night is playing, the scent of pine is in the air and the taste of sweet hot chocolate lingers on your mouth…. it’s a truly magical moment, made all the more special by having your significant other beside you.
An extended family gathering doesn’t hold the monopoly on holiday cheer. There’s much to be said for making your Christmas a small and intimate event, especially if you’ve been the recipient of more than one family drama come Christmas time.
(If that’s you, you might like these family Christmas survival tips).
And if that’s the kind of Christmas you’re looking for, you’ll want to check out these Christmas vacation ideas for couples to find the perfect Christmas holiday destination for two.
From New York to the North Pole, each Christmas destination holds its own unique charm.
Why not add all of them to your Christmas bucket list?
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Boston, Massachusetts
Shobha George of Martha’s Vineyard Tourist thinks Boston is a fabulous Christmas destination for couples.
Christmas in Boston is an experience not to be missed. If you’re lucky enough, you may even be blessed with a white Christmas.
There are several large Christmas trees in different locations like Copley Plaza, Boston Common and Faneuil Hall.
Some of the great things to do in Boston at Christmas time include watching the Christmas Light Show in Quincy Market, ice skating in Boston Common, and shopping at one of the Christmas Markets like Snowport at the Seaport.
Boston also has great shopping opportunities at Christmastime like at Downtown Crossing, the Street at Chestnut Hill and the shops at Prudential Center and Newbury Street.
In the Boston suburb of Somerville, residents go all out on holiday lights and it’s a spectacle to behold. Another place with extraordinary lights is the Stone Zoo right outside Boston in Stoneham.
There are many cultural things to do in Boston as well to get you into the Christmas spirit. For example, you can attend a concert with the Boston Pops or watch the Boston Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker at the Boston Opera House. If you like theatre, check out the annual production of A Christmas Carol at the North Shore Theatre. There are also Christmas concerts at the historic Trinity Church.
A unique Boston Christmas show is the annual Black Nativity which is a gospel retelling of the Christmas story originally written by Langston Hughes.
Make sure to wrap up warm because the temperature drops at night!
A Holiday Lights Trolley tour will take you around the city showing off the many Christmas lights display.
The hotels are also decked out for the holidays, especially the Boston Harbor Hotel which puts on a extravaganza of flowers and lights.
Fredericksburg, Texas
Bruna of Maps ‘n Bags thinks Fredericksburg, Texas is the perfect Christmas destination for couples.
Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is a small town founded by German immigrants. This lovely town is filled with quaint boutiques, bakeries, and peach orchards, making it incredibly romantic.
Beyond that, this small German enclave is pleasant all year round, but it glows during the holiday season like no other!
With a 26-foot tall Christmas pyramid – handcrafted in Germany – and a 30-foot tall Christmas tree, the main square is the perfect place for an evening stroll with your loved one as the Christmas lights shine upon you.
Finish up your day with a visit to one of the excellent, family-owned German restaurants or bistros in town. Their traditional setting has everything to make any dinner special.
So, book your accommodation—many Airbnbs in Fredericksburg are incredibly romantic—pack your bags, and bring your significant other to experience a romantic Christmas in this fantastic Texan town.
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Aram Vardanyan of Megan & Aram Travel Blog loves Grand Teton National Park as a place for couples to go for a romantic Christmas vacation.
When the snow starts to fall in November, Grand Teton National Park becomes a wintry paradise and the perfect getaway for a romantic holiday.
The heavy snowfall makes much of the park inaccessible but you can still explore vast areas on foot or using snowshoes.
As you walk through the dense snow, the serene peacefulness of the park will make you feel like you are in a different world. It’s perfect for couples wishing to spend time alone together away from the normal distractions of everyday life.
After a day in the wilderness, the town of Jackson Hole is a relatively large city compared to the park and there are plenty of cozy cafes where you can hole yourself up for a few hours to warm up before heading for a hearty meal.
Take the opportunity to enjoy one of the wildlife spotting tours within the park, as the chance of seeing some of the wilder residents is vastly increased due to the snow pushing the animals down off of the mountains.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more thrill-seeking experience, there are plenty of backcountry skiing opportunities in the mountains, where you can really become one with nature and experience the park with an adrenaline rush.
Rest up in one of the many cabins available to rent around the park, where you can cuddle up in front of a roaring fire and rest after a day of adventure.
Lake Tahoe, California
Allison Green, of California Crossroads, thinks Lake Tahoe is the best Christmas vacation spot for couples.
If you’re looking for a romantic place to spend Christmas in the United States with your significant other, Lake Tahoe located on the border of California and Nevada is a fantastic option for active couples.
Winter is one of Tahoe’s best times, as the whole area comes alive with people who have come from all over the USA to ski.
But there are so many great things to do in Tahoe in winter even if you don’t ski.
Stay in one of the cute and charming resorts in South Lake Tahoe. The resorts are all lit up beautifully with Christmas and holiday decorations which makes them delightful to stroll around after dark.
Heavenly Resort is a favorite, but there are so many great ski resorts to choose from in the Tahoe area.
Ride the Heavenly Gondola to the peak for some of the best views over a wintry Lake Tahoe landscape to check out with your partner.
Other great things to do in Lake Tahoe in winter with your significant other include checking out the Donner Memorial State Park and beautiful Donner Lake, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing around the rim of the lake, or tackling a winter hike.
Midland, Michigan
When it comes to Christmas vacation ideas for couples, Sherry Trautman of Traveling Michigan recommends Midland, Michigan.
Visiting Whiting Forest located in Midland, Michigan is an incredible experience any time of year, but is especially breathtaking in December as the forest is a winter wonderland.
The highlight of visiting Whiting Forest is experiencing the nation’s longest canopy walk. This wooden open-air walkway soars 40 feet above the forest floor, offering views of frozen ponds, forest pathways, and a pretty apple orchard.
Couples can walk hand in hand exploring the wooden “pods,” lie in the rope nets, and dare each other to inch out onto the suspended glass walkway.
The forest at Whiting offers several paved walkways that will lead couples past frozen ponds, across a covered bridge, and along several boardwalks.
While visiting Midland, be sure to stay at the H Hotel, located in the heart of the quaint downtown. Grab a healthy breakfast at Café Zinc before wandering through candy shops, art stores and stylish boutiques in the downtown area.
Couples will also want to visit the Tridge, a wooden three-way footbridge located right behind the H Hotel. This bridge offers scenic views of the Tittabawassee and Chippewa rivers and is a joy to walk across.
New York City, New York
Ketki of Dotted Globe thinks New York City is the place for couples to be at Christmas time.
New York City is one of the most popular and romantic places to visit in the USA for a snowy holiday vacation.
There are so many things to do in New York for couples.
Walk through Manhattan and admire the window Christmas decors of major stores. Shop at holiday markets and buy handmade gifts for your loved one.
Sip hot cocoa while you walk over Brooklyn Bridge.
Visit the museums and art galleries to escape the freezing cold.
Listen to jazz in Harlem or check out the eateries in Dumbo.
For outdoor lovers, try a hand in hand stroll under the flurries in Central Park. The holiday lights and decor make the park even more magical. Go on a horse-drawn carriage ride or try ice skating in the park.
Visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and take in the beautiful trees and shrubs in the holiday season. Ride to the top of the Empire State Building and see the beautiful city from above.
The Big Apple has many things to do for couples and looks stunning in the winter. The holiday season is one of the best times to see the city at its most dazzling.
North Pole, Alaska
Kay, from The Awkward Traveller, knows there’s no better Christmas vacation destination for couples than the North Pole – in Alaska that is!
Even for those who don’t celebrate Christmas religiously, there is one globally recognized symbol for the holiday: Santa.
Now, visiting the Santa’s ACTUAL location of the North Pole can be a bit challenging for the average tourist. Thankfully, there is an easier solution to get all of your Christmas cheer with the next best location: the charming small town of North Pole, Alaska.
North Pole is actually decorated year round with candy cane striped light poles and festive sign posts, but it really comes alive during the holidays.
All of the buildings put up Christmas lights, local residents volunteer to mail Christmas cards to children around the world, and shopping centers have holiday jingles playing in the parking lot.
North Pole is especially great for couples, both new and old romances. There are multiple reindeer farms where you can stroll with your beau hand in hand, or check out ice sculpting competitions while drinking hot cocoa.
To top of your experience, take a trip to Santa’s Workshop, one of the largest Christmas decor stores in the country.
If you’re lucky, Santa himself will be sitting atop his grand Christmas throne for pictures and wish lists. Outside of Santa’s workshop, you will find North Pole’s annual Winter Festival, featuring artisan booths and carnival games with a holiday twist.
For a change of scenery, Fairbanks, Alaska is just a quick twenty minutes away!
Some of the best things to do in Fairbanks in winter are perfect for couple activities, such as dog sledding, hot springs, and visiting cultural museums.
Once the day comes to an end, grab a thermos of your favorite warm drink and head out to a park to view the Northern Lights as they float across the night sky.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
This Christmas vacation idea is one of Derek and Mike of Robe Trotting’s favorites.
Couples that visit Philadelphia know they’re in for delicious food, friendly locals and fascinating American history. Christmas in Philadelphia is a fun and festive period that’s unlike any other time of the year.
The romantic Christmas city is in full holiday display with Christmas Markets in LOVE Park and nearby Dilworth Park. The booths of gift vendors and refreshment stands feel like a traditional European Christmas market in the middle of Philadelphia.
Christmas isn’t complete without elaborate light displays and brightly-decorated holiday trees which you can find all around the city. The city’s best outdoor display is The Electrical Spectacle in Franklin Square.
A more subdued illumination is found in Rittenhouse Square which is fitting in this picturesque neighborhood – perfect for a lover’s stroll.
For an indoor display, head to the Macy’s Department Store on Market Street. There you’ll find the Christmas Extravaganza, a light show that dazzles visitors every hour.
After a long day exploring the city, you can try ice skating at Penn’s Landing. There you’ll find the Blue Cross Riverrink, an outdoor venue with riverfront views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. It’s festive, romantic and decorated like a ski chalet with outdoor seating, firepits and a bar to keep you warm and cozy together.
Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania
Derek and Mike of Robe Trotting love the Pocono Mountains as an option for a couple’s Christmas vacation.
The Poconos have long been a popular winter destination in the Northeastern United States. It’s a gorgeous stretch of nature in Pennsylvania and the perfect location for a couple’s retreat. A serene and peaceful Christmas trip to the Poconos will have any couple feeling romantic and refreshed.
In the region, couples will find countless outdoor winter activities like skiing, tubing and snowboarding. A ski lift for two makes a great photo, but it’s also a perfect place to connect with your partner and the nature around you on the mountains.
Most of Pennsylvania’s best ski resorts are in the Poconos and many have great spas and restaurants for couples who prefer to connect off the slopes. Apres ski or a couples massage is always more romantic than downhill skiing!
The nature in the Poconos is also remarkable with frozen glacial lakes and trails that circle them blanketed in snow. In the Poconos you’ll truly be walking in a winter wonderland with your love.
After exploring nature, it’s cozy to relax by a fireplace and enjoy any of the incredible cabins, mountain houses and lake homes available through Poconos Airbnb rentals.
There’s nothing like a natural getaway at Christmas to help you unwind and appreciate what’s really important during the holiday season.
You’ll fall in love with the Poconos at Christmas and learn why couples visit the region all throughout the year.
San Francisco
Kay of PCH1 Road Trip loves spending Christmas in San Francisco.
When it comes to the West Coast of the USA, San Francisco consistently ranks as a top holiday Christmas vacation destination for couples. The city is made for romance. With its beautiful vintage cable cars that ride up the hilly streets and charming Victorian houses, San Francisco is all about laid-back charm.
Of course, the first place to begin every trip to San Francisco is the Golden Gate Bridge. Take a stroll along the bridge and walk all the way to the other side. Admire the views of the city from the other side and take in the panoramas of the Pacific Ocean.
Walk over to Union Square and admire the beautiful Christmas tree. Shop for gifts and go ice skating at the rink. Indulge in hot chocolate at Ghirardelli Square. See the Zoo Lights at the San Francisco Zoo and see the twinkling holiday lights all over the city from Twin Peaks.
After spending a couple of days in the city, take a road trip on the Pacific Coast Highway. To spot the gray whales that migrate during winter, visit Point Reyes in the north. Alternatively, drive south and visit half Moon Bay or Monterey to enjoy the holiday festivities in the smaller cities.
St. Augustine, Florida
Brandy Sullivan recommends St. Augustine as a Christmas vacation idea for couples.
The quaint town of St. Augustine is located on the East coast of Florida and is an ideal destination for a couple’s Christmas vacation.
This place definitely knows how to celebrate the holidays right with millions of twinkling lights decorating the entire town from Thanksgiving through January.
St. Augustine boasts an array of fun activities to partake in and definitely has something to please everyone.
Finding accommodations here is easy! There are many Airbnb rentals to be found in addition to local and chain hotels.
While Uber and ride share services are readily available, having a car helps see more of this beautiful and historic town.
Take a stroll down St. George Street – a pedestrian only, cobblestone street – and take in all the wonderful holiday decorations.
It’s filled with great shopping and awesome restaurants. There are candy stores, homemade soap shops, live music to enjoy and so much more.
St. Augustine Lighthouse is one of the tallest and most beautiful lighthouses in the country.
Climb the 216 stairs all the way to the top and enjoy the amazing views with your favorite person.
After coming down, wander through the lighthouse keeper’s museum and find great souvenirs in the gift shop.
The beautiful beaches of St. Augustine are only a few short miles from the town center.
Drive over the Bridge of Lions to Anastasia Island and enjoy miles of sand, water and sun.
Take a jog, swim in the ocean or work on your tan even in December!
Or take a short trip over to Vilano Beach and enjoy a romantic oceanfront dinner at fabulous restaurants like The Reef.
If you’re looking for a really fun way to spend a few hours with the love of your life, you’ll love the Fountain of Youth. Learn about Spanish and Native American settlements while exploring the theme park and take a drink out of the actual Fountain of Youth that Ponce de Leon discovered in the early 1500’s.
Finally, Castillo de San Marcos is one of the most impressive forts in the United States and is a really amazing place to explore even if you’re not a history buff. It’s made out of Coquina rock and is over 300 years old. The views from the top level are gorgeous and it’s located right in the middle of town, so it’s easy to get a bite to eat after a few hours of exploring.
Christmas is the most magical time to visit St. Augustine and make wonderful memories with the person that you love most.
Washington, D.C
Megan Starr of Virginia Travel Tips loves Washing DC as a Christmas destination for couples.
Washington DC is one of the most romantic cities in the US, especially during the winter.
As the weather cools and the holiday season approaches, the city gets into the festive mood with decorations, ice rinks, and holiday markets galore.
During the day, take time to explore the history of the city at the National Mall, where you can visit some of the nation’s most iconic monuments and buildings.
If you get too cold, drop into one of the many Smithsonian museums that line the district.
Spend time wandering the holiday markets in Penn Quarter before enjoying dinner at one of the cities many amazing restaurants.
While there are so many things to do in the city, take the opportunity to escape the hustle of downtown Washington and visit historic Alexandria, Virginia.
The historic center is over 250 years old and the charming streets are full of boutiques and quaint little cafes where you can get cozy as you warm up with a delicious coffee or heartwarming hot chocolate.
The US Botanical gardens provide an alternative to the constant barrage of winter. The heated greenhouses give life to an array of tropical plants that are bursting with color and create a wonderful escape from the grey tones of winter outside of the gardens.
Yellowstone National Park
Christina of Live a Wilder Life suggests you check out Yellowstone National Park as a place to visit this Christmas.
If you’re looking for a once in a lifetime experience that’s adventurous and off the beaten path, you can’t top Christmas in Yellowstone National Park.
Yellowstone is one of the most popular national parks in the US and attracts well over a million people a year.
Since the majority of those visitors come in the summer months, the best way to avoid the throngs of crowds is to visit Yellowstone in the winter.
That’s when the place is blanketed with powdery white snow, and you can go hours without seeing anyone in the park.
When planning a trip to Yellowstone for Christmas, you must prepare in advance. Only two hotels are available in the park, and if entering through the south entrance to stay at the Old Faithful Lodge, you’ll have to charter a snow coach to get into the park.
Once you’re there, you can hit the trails with your snowshoes or skis and bask in the awe-inspiring views of the hot springs bubbling over with steam.
While visiting, taking a guided day tour through the park is a must-do.
Recommend tours include early morning wildlife tours where you can spot moose, bison, wolves, bighorn sheep, or a tour out to the Canyon area to see frozen waterfalls.
Afterward, cozy up in your Christmas decorated lodge and sip on hot chocolate.
Summing up
Christmas isn’t just for families – it can be a fun and romantic time for couples as well.
Make the most of your Christmas for two by selecting one of these Christmas vacation ideas for couples as your next go-to holiday destination.