Christmas has always felt a little more magical to me when I can actually step into the holiday atmosphere instead of simply decorating my living room and calling it a day.

I love the twinkling lights, enormous Christmas trees, cozy fireplaces, festive music, and that feeling you get when a hotel lobby looks like it belongs inside a Christmas movie.

Over the years, I’ve learned that some hotels take Christmas decorating to an entirely different level.

They turn their lobbies, restaurants, gardens, and guest spaces into full-blown winter wonderlands. If you’re looking for a festive getaway this year, these are 13 hotels that truly glitter and glow for Christmas.

They’re perfect for couples, families, girlfriends’ trips, or anyone who simply wants to soak up a little extra holiday magic.

1. The Gaylord Opryland Resort – Nashville, Tennessee

If you want to feel completely surrounded by Christmas, Gaylord Opryland Resort is one of the first places I would put on your list.

The resort is famous for going all-out during the holiday season, transforming its enormous indoor spaces into a sparkling Christmas wonderland.

Thousands of lights, towering Christmas trees, elaborate decorations, and festive displays make the resort feel almost like a Christmas village under glass.

One of the best things about staying here is that you don’t have to leave the resort to enjoy plenty of holiday activities.

What makes it special at Christmas?

• Elaborate Christmas decorations
• Millions of holiday lights
• Christmas-themed entertainment
• Ice and winter attractions
• Seasonal dining
• Family-friendly activities
• Beautiful indoor gardens

It’s especially wonderful for families because there are so many activities happening in one place.

My tip: Book early if you’re planning a December stay. Christmas programming can make this resort extremely popular.

2. The Omni Grove Park Inn – Asheville, North Carolina

The Omni Grove Park Inn is the kind of place that makes me want to curl up beside a fireplace with a hot chocolate and stay there all afternoon.

Located in Asheville, surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, this historic resort becomes particularly beautiful during the holidays.

Its grand stone fireplaces and traditional architecture already create a cozy atmosphere, but Christmas decorations make everything feel even more special.

The hotel is also famous for its annual National Gingerbread House Competition, which is one of the most charming holiday traditions you can experience here.

Why visit during Christmas?

The combination of:

• Mountain scenery
• Giant fireplaces
• Elegant Christmas decorations
• Gingerbread displays
• Holiday dining
• Cozy accommodations

makes this an excellent choice for a romantic Christmas escape.

Best for: Couples, families, and anyone who loves traditional Christmas charm.

3. The Plaza Hotel – New York City

Few places feel as glamorous during Christmas as New York City, and staying at The Plaza can make the experience even more special.

The Plaza sits beside Central Park and is surrounded by some of Manhattan’s most iconic holiday attractions.

During the Christmas season, the hotel embraces an elegant festive atmosphere that perfectly matches its luxurious character.

After exploring New York’s Christmas markets, window displays, Rockefeller Center, and Central Park, returning to a beautifully decorated historic hotel feels like the perfect ending to the day.

Things to do nearby

When you stay here, you can easily explore:

• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
• Fifth Avenue holiday windows
• Central Park
• Radio City Music Hall
• Bryant Park Winter Village
• Holiday markets

My tip: New York gets incredibly busy around Christmas, so reserve your hotel well in advance and expect higher rates during peak dates.

4. The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park – New York City

For a more sophisticated Christmas escape, The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park is another beautiful option.

I love the idea of waking up near Central Park during the holiday season and spending the day exploring Manhattan before returning to an elegant hotel.

The hotel’s luxurious setting pairs beautifully with New York’s festive atmosphere outside.

You can spend the morning walking through Central Park, visit Fifth Avenue in the afternoon, and enjoy a beautiful holiday dinner in the evening.

Why stay here?

It’s particularly appealing if you want Christmas in New York without sacrificing comfort and luxury.

Best for: Couples, special occasions, and luxury travelers.

5. The Greenbrier – White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia

The Greenbrier has a timeless, old-fashioned holiday feeling that makes it particularly appealing during December.

This historic resort is known for its grand interiors, colorful décor, beautiful architecture, and extensive Christmas programming.

During the holidays, the property becomes incredibly festive, with decorations throughout the resort.

Christmas activities can include:

• Holiday meals
• Christmas entertainment
• Festive decorations
• Seasonal events
• Shopping
• Family activities

One of my favorite things about destinations like this is that you can slow down. You don’t have to spend every day rushing between attractions.

You can enjoy breakfast, walk around the beautifully decorated property, relax, and simply enjoy the atmosphere.

6. The Broadmoor – Colorado Springs, Colorado

If your dream Christmas includes mountains, snow, elegant decorations, and plenty of activities, The Broadmoor is worth considering.

Located in Colorado Springs, this iconic resort combines luxurious accommodations with spectacular mountain scenery.

During the holiday season, the resort becomes especially beautiful with festive decorations and seasonal programming.

The surrounding Rocky Mountain landscape gives the entire experience an extra layer of winter magic.

What makes The Broadmoor special?

You can combine your Christmas getaway with outdoor adventures, spa time, beautiful meals, and holiday activities.

It’s a wonderful choice if you want a Christmas vacation that feels both festive and relaxing.

Best for: Couples, families, and travelers who love mountain resorts.

7. The Biltmore Estate – Asheville, North Carolina

For Christmas lovers, visiting the Biltmore during the holiday season can feel like stepping into another era.

Although it is much more than simply a hotel destination, staying at one of the Biltmore Estate’s accommodations allows you to experience the estate while enjoying its famous Christmas celebrations.

The estate is known for its enormous Christmas trees, elaborate decorations, candlelight experiences, and beautifully decorated rooms.

The scale of the Christmas decorations is one of the things that makes this experience so memorable.

Don’t miss:

• Christmas at Biltmore
• Candlelight Christmas Evenings
• Decorated estate rooms
• Christmas trees
• Holiday shopping
• Seasonal dining

My tip: Give yourself plenty of time here. The estate is large, and rushing through it would mean missing much of the experience.

8. The Breakers – Palm Beach, Florida

Christmas doesn’t have to mean snow.

If you prefer sunshine and warm temperatures during the holidays, Palm Beach offers a completely different kind of Christmas getaway.

The Breakers combines classic luxury with a beautiful coastal setting, making it perfect for travelers who want to celebrate Christmas somewhere warm.

During the holiday season, the resort embraces festive decorations while maintaining its elegant atmosphere.

Why choose a warm Christmas?

You can enjoy:

• Beach walks
• Sunshine
• Swimming
• Festive dinners
• Holiday decorations
• Palm trees
• Luxury resort amenities

This is especially appealing if you’re someone like me who loves Christmas but doesn’t necessarily need freezing temperatures to get into the holiday spirit.

9. The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes – Orlando, Florida

Orlando is already one of the most popular family vacation destinations in the United States, but Christmas makes it even more exciting.

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes offers a luxurious place to relax between holiday adventures.

It’s a good choice for families who want a resort atmosphere while remaining close to Orlando’s famous attractions.

A Christmas stay can include:

• Resort activities
• Festive dining
• Holiday decorations
• Family entertainment
• Pool time
• Easy access to Orlando attractions

Best for: Families looking for a Christmas vacation with plenty to do.

10. The Jefferson – Washington, D.C.

For a quieter and more elegant Christmas getaway, I would consider The Jefferson in Washington, D.C.

This historic luxury hotel has an intimate atmosphere that feels completely different from the huge resort-style properties on this list.

Christmas in Washington, D.C. can be beautiful, particularly when you combine holiday decorations with the city’s museums, monuments, restaurants, and winter events.

Things to enjoy nearby

• National Christmas Tree
• Downtown holiday decorations
• National Mall
• Smithsonian museums
• Georgetown
• Holiday shopping

The Jefferson is a lovely choice if your ideal Christmas trip includes sightseeing during the day and a peaceful, elegant hotel at night.

11. The Langham, Chicago – Chicago, Illinois

Chicago knows how to do winter beautifully.

The city’s holiday atmosphere combined with the luxury of The Langham makes this an appealing Christmas destination.

During December, you can explore Chicago’s festive attractions before returning to the comfort of the hotel.

Nearby Christmas experiences

• Millennium Park
• The Bean
• Magnificent Mile
• Christmas markets
• Holiday shopping
• Ice skating
• Seasonal restaurants

Chicago can be very cold in December, so pack warm layers, comfortable boots, gloves, and a good winter coat.

Travel tip: If you plan on walking around the city, don’t sacrifice comfort for fashion. You’ll enjoy your trip much more if your shoes can handle several hours of sightseeing.

12. The Peabody Memphis – Memphis, Tennessee

The Peabody Memphis is known for its historic character and famous Peabody Ducks, but the Christmas season gives this iconic hotel another reason to visit.

The hotel’s holiday decorations add a festive touch to its already impressive interiors.

If you’re visiting Memphis during December, staying somewhere with plenty of character can make your trip feel much more memorable than choosing a generic hotel.

Things to enjoy

• Historic architecture
• Christmas decorations
• Festive events
• Downtown Memphis
• Seasonal dining
• Famous Peabody Duck tradition

It’s a fun option for travelers who want their Christmas hotel to have a story behind it.

13. The Davenport Hotel – Spokane, Washington

The Historic Davenport is one of those hotels that feels beautiful all year, but its traditional architecture makes Christmas especially charming.

Located in downtown Spokane, the hotel provides an elegant base for exploring the city during the holiday season.

Its historic interiors and festive decorations create a cozy atmosphere that works especially well for a winter city break.

Why add it to your Christmas list?

You can combine your hotel stay with:

• Downtown holiday lights
• Christmas shopping
• Winter activities
• Seasonal restaurants
• Local events
• Cozy evenings indoors

If you prefer smaller city Christmas experiences over enormous tourist attractions, Spokane can be a refreshing choice.

How to Choose the Right Christmas Hotel

With so many beautiful choices, picking one can be surprisingly difficult. I usually recommend thinking about the type of Christmas experience you actually want before booking.

For a Romantic Christmas

Choose somewhere with beautiful architecture, fireplaces, elegant dining, and a cozy atmosphere.

My picks would be:

• The Omni Grove Park Inn
• The Plaza
• The Greenbrier
• The Broadmoor

For a Family Christmas

Look for resorts with organized holiday activities so you don’t have to constantly leave the property.

My favorites from this list would be:

• Gaylord Opryland
• The Broadmoor
• The Ritz-Carlton Orlando
• The Greenbrier

For a Luxury Christmas

If you want Christmas with a little extra glamour, consider:

• The Plaza
• The Ritz-Carlton New York
• The Breakers
• The Langham Chicago

For a Warm Christmas

If snow isn’t your thing, you don’t have to give up the festive atmosphere.

Consider:

• The Breakers in Palm Beach
• The Ritz-Carlton Orlando

Christmas Hotel Booking Tips

A beautiful Christmas hotel can book up much faster than you might expect, particularly during the week surrounding Christmas and New Year’s.

Here are a few things I would do before booking.

1. Book early

Christmas is one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Popular hotels can sell out months ahead.

2. Check what’s included

Don’t assume every Christmas activity is included with your room.

Some hotels may charge separately for:

• Christmas shows
• Special dinners
• Ice attractions
• Holiday tours
• Children’s activities
• Special events

Always check the hotel’s current holiday program before paying.

3. Look at the location

A beautifully decorated hotel isn’t much fun if it’s an hour away from everything you want to see.

Think about whether you want a resort where you can stay all day or a city hotel where you’ll spend most of your time sightseeing.

4. Check cancellation policies

Christmas plans can change quickly, so I prefer flexible reservations whenever the price difference is reasonable.

5. Ask about Christmas events

Before booking, check the hotel’s official holiday calendar. Some properties offer special Christmas breakfasts, Santa visits, light displays, concerts, markets, or Christmas Eve dinners.

6. Don’t forget dining reservations

One mistake I see travelers make is booking their hotel but waiting until the last minute to think about Christmas dinner.

If you plan to eat at the hotel on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, make reservations as early as possible.

What to Pack for a Christmas Hotel Stay

Your packing list will depend heavily on the destination, but there are a few things I always recommend.

For cold destinations:

• Warm coat
• Sweaters
• Thermal layers
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Warm socks
• Gloves
• Scarf
• Hat
• Compact umbrella

For warm destinations:

• Lightweight dresses
• Sandals
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Swimsuit
• Sunglasses
• Light cardigan
• Evening outfit

For any Christmas hotel:

Don’t forget a small crossbody bag for sightseeing, a portable phone charger, travel-size toiletries, and a nice outfit for holiday dinners.

And if you’re traveling with children, pack a few familiar comfort items. A little piece of home can make a hotel stay much easier for them.

Final Thoughts

Christmas travel doesn’t have to be complicated to feel special. Sometimes, all it takes is choosing the right hotel.

Whether you dream about walking beneath thousands of sparkling lights at Gaylord Opryland, relaxing beside a massive fireplace in Asheville, enjoying a glamorous Christmas in New York, or escaping the cold for a sunny Palm Beach holiday, there is a festive hotel experience waiting for you.

Personally, I love the idea of choosing a hotel where the Christmas atmosphere begins the moment you walk through the doors. It makes the entire trip feel like part of the celebration rather than simply a place to sleep between activities.

So grab your cozy sweater, make your Christmas playlist, and start planning. These 13 hotels that glitter and glow for Christmas could turn an ordinary December trip into a holiday memory you’ll be talking about for years.