Ever wish you were actually walking in a winter wonderland over the holidays? All the best songs talk about letting it snow, building a snowman, hearing those sleigh bells jingling, ring-ting-tingling, but depending on where you live, your Christmas may be more like a warm wonderland. Or maybe it’s cold but what fun is the cold if it’s not snowing? That’s like having a warm beach without water.
Luckily, we’ve got the perfect list of winter wonderlands to get you in the holiday spirit – to make you feel like you’re visiting that beautiful little town inside the most ornate snow globe.
Quebec City, Quebec
Our brother up north, is pegged as one of the world’s best holiday destinations, Quebec City has all the necessary holiday ingredients – amazing history, spectacular lights, marshmallow snow and shop-‘til-you-drop opportunities. In fact, during December, Old Quebec transforms into a real-life Christmas village, like a replica of Whovile sans Grinch.
Frankenmuth, Michigan
One glance at Frankenmuth and you’ll see the German heritage that helps make up this quaint holiday villa. Nestled less than a hundred miles north of Detroit (so you know you’re going to see snow), Frankenmuth is home to Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, one of the world’s (not just nation’s) largest Christmas stores. Plus the name, Frankenmuth sounds like a combination of Frankincense and myrrh, so it’s got that going for it, too.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Looking for that picture perfect sleigh ride? Look no further than winter in the Sierras. Lake Tahoe is the perfect combination of blanket covered mountain peaks and serene waters. So whatever sledding you plan on partaking in – dog-sledding, ice skating, skiing, snowboarding, horse sleighing or snow-mobiling – Lake Tahoe has your jingle bells ringing.
Ogunquit, Maine
New England beach resort in the summer and charming wonderland come winter, Ogunquit features the infamous Christmas by the Sea Festival. It’s Maine’s unique blend of stunning geography that makes this town the perfect holiday photo op.
Astoria, Oregon
Moving from east coast to west coast, Astoria punctuates holiday charm by claiming to be the oldest American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. Packed with spectacular winter storms, stretching coastlines and the quaintness that only an old American town can offer, Astoria is a must see winter destination.
Park City, Utah
Utah is home to some of the most breathtaking American scenery and Park City is no exception. Mixing the feel of a wild west mining town with that of a modern ski resort, Park City offers historical sightseeing and adventurous winter fun. And if you’re into movies, Park City is the winter home to the hot ticket Sundance Film Festival every January.
Aspen, Colorado
What’s more winter wonderland than being known internationally as THE Rocky Mountain snow playground? Aspen is a renowned winter vacation spot brimming with a host of fresh powdered outdoor activities.
Yellow Stone National Park
Often considered a coveted summer vacation spot, Yellowstone offers park goers a completely different experience during the winter. Enjoy a plush wonderland of snow carriaging, skiing, snowshoeing and more. Not to mention that the frigid temperatures and snowfall transform the park’s geological features into a winter sight to behold.
