5 U.S. Cities Spark Holiday Travel Inspiration
Yes, we know we’ve yet to hit those Halloween parties yet, but it’s never too early to think about a few options to plan a late fall or early winter getaway! That’s right, we’ve got some holiday travel inspiration for travelers looking for vacation spots in the U.S. Here are just a few unique ideas to get you started. And Vacationer will continue to keep you updated on more fun holiday travel ideas over the next few months, too!
San Diego
While the weather in Southern California may not embody a “true” winter, the holiday festivities are endless! Skate around a Christmas tree at an outdoor ice-skating rink or wait for Surfin’ Santa’s arrival at Seaport Village. Don’t miss out on the annual tree lighting and Hanukkah and Menorah lighting at San Diego’s historic community hub, Liberty Station. Celebrate after and grab a drink at The Holding Company, a 3-story restaurant, bar, and live music venue, located just steps away from the beach. If being outdoors is more your speed, check out Everyday California’s kayak and snorkeling tours for the chance to get out on the water and see incredible sea life.
Find out more about the LGBTQ+ scene in San Diego here!
Denver
A visit to the Mile High City during the holidays will surely make your winter wonderland dreams come true. Catch the Polar Express Train Ride at the Colorado Railroad Museum and stop by the zoo to see more than one million lights across 80 acres. Check in for the night at The Curtis, but the fun won’t stop there. Located in the heart of Denver, the property boasts 13 floors of hyper-themed rooms, including a Marvel Suite on the “Superhero” floor, a “Barbie” suite, and even a Ghostbuster suite. Pop culture comes to life at this eclectic hotel!
Click here for more LGBTQ+ info to help queer travelers plan their festive year-end vacation!
Nashville, Tennessee
Known for its country music-filled nights and honky-tonks, Nashville is the best place to dance the night away this holiday season. Spend the night at the historic Holston House, and don’t miss their iconic Bar Tenn fully decked out as an over-the-top Christmas bar. The Tacky Christmas Bar Extravaganza will launch on November 17. Overlooking the historic lobby, the cozy cocktail lounge and bar will be the prime spot to enjoy a festive beverage and bites amongst winter wonderland décor, live holiday music, and a variety of holiday cocktails to sip on, like the Snowhere like Home, License to Chill and Up to Snow Good, all located steps away from the hustle and bustle of downtown.
Visit the Music City and plan your holiday getaway using this LGBTQ+ Nashville Guide.
Washington, D.C.
Spending the holidays in the nation’s capital is sure to be full of rich history and culture. Stop to see the National Christmas Tree, shop around at the Downtown Holiday Market or watch the holiday boat parade at The Wharf. As you make your way back to the heart of the capital, spend the night at The Kimpton Banneker Hotel. Named after Benjamin Banneker, a significant figure in the history of Washington, D.C., the contemporary-modern luxury boutique hotel offers guests the perfect place to relax after a day full of holiday festivities.
Before you go, check out this LGBTQ+ guide for Washington, DC for some cool queer-friendly hot spots!
Birmingham, Alabama
Catch a show at the Alabama Theatre while in Birmingham and take a stroll through the Birmingham Botanical Gardens Holiday Story Walk. Just a short drive from downtown Birmingham is The Valley Hotel, located in a picturesque tree-filled landscape. The hotel offers a “home away from home” feel and is the perfect place to stop for the night.
Find out more about Birmingham’s LGBQ+ scene here.
