How to Plan Your Christmas Weekend in the US?

As December 24, 2025, unfolds into a long Christmas weekend—Christmas Day falling on a Thursday, giving many a four-day break—it’s the perfect time for a spontaneous escape. With record travel expected this year, last-minute getaways are still possible if you’re flexible.

According to recent reports, over 122 million Americans are hitting the road or skies for the holidays, but flying on Christmas Eve or Day itself often means cheaper fares and quieter airports.

Planning Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday Trip

Book Smart: Look for deals on Christmas Day flights—often the least crowded and most affordable. Avoid peak days like December 20-22 for departures.

Drive Strategically: Roads will be busiest post-Christmas; aim to travel early morning or late evening. Check apps for real-time traffic.

Weather Watch: 2025’s Christmas is unusually warm across much of the US, with record highs possible in the Midwest and South (mid-70s in Kansas City and St. Louis). Snow is likely only in the Rockies, Great Lakes region, and northern New England—dreams of a white Christmas may melt away in many spots.

Pack Light: Wrap gifts at your destination to breeze through security. Many events are ongoing through New Year’s.

Quick Getaways: Focus on drivable or short-flight spots for ease—theme parks, mountain towns, or city lights.

Here are five standout festive destinations for quick, magical escapes this Christmas weekend, blending classics with 2025 highlights.

1. New York City, NY – The Ultimate Holiday Spectacle

NYC tops many 2025 rankings as the world’s best Christmas destination. The iconic Rockefeller Center tree (lit since early December) draws crowds for skating and lights.

Stroll Fifth Avenue windows, catch the Radio City Rockettes, or shop holiday markets. Mild weather (around 40-50°F) makes walking enjoyable. Quick tip: Fly into JFK or LaGuardia; many hotels offer holiday packages.

2. Orlando, FL – Family Magic Without the Chill

WalletHub ranks Orlando in the top five for 2025 Christmas celebrations. Disney World and Universal are decked out with parades, fireworks, and themed overlays—perfect for kids.

Warm temps (70s) mean pool time between festivities. Events run through December. Last-minute flights are often available; drive if you’re in the Southeast.

3. Aspen, CO – Snowy Luxury Escape

For a classic winter wonderland, Aspen’s twinkling lights and slopes shine. Skiing, après-ski, and holiday events like the 12 Days of Aspen make it romantic or adventurous.

Snow is guaranteed here amid the national warm spell. Short flights from Denver; book a cozy lodge for that fireside vibe.

4. Chicago, IL – Urban Festive Charm

The Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza is a German-style highlight with mulled wine and crafts. Millennium Park skating and Magnificent Mile lights add magic.

Mild weather this year (possibly 50s) keeps it comfortable. Easy Midwest access by car or train.

5. Santa Claus, IN – Quirky Small-Town Joy

For pure whimsy, head to this town that lives Christmas year-round. The Land of Lights drive-through and holiday festival are family favorites.

Drivable from much of the Midwest; affordable and uncrowded for last-minute plans.Other quick hits: Atlanta (top WalletHub pick for affordability and markets), Bethlehem, PA (“Christmas City” with markets), or Leavenworth, WA (Bavarian lights).

Wherever you go, embrace the warmth—literal and figurative—of this unusually balmy 2025 holiday. Safe travels and merry Christmas!