The perfect Christmas getaway may look different to some, but most people look for destinations that are downright cozy. From twinkling lights and a snowy landscape to Christmas carols and fragrant holiday treats, a classic Christmas scene can really get you into the holiday spirit. If you’re looking to plan a trip for the holidays, a new study by BetMGM Casino reveals the coziest cities in the U.S. for the ultimate Christmas escape.
To identify the coziest cities, BetMGM Casino started with 19 cities known for their Christmas appeal. They evaluated six key factors that just scream “cozy Christmas”: snowfall to enhance the magical wintry feel, availability of cozy accommodations like cabins in December, festive events like Christmas markets and holiday shows, number of holiday venues such as ice skating rinks and coffee shops, average December temperatures and access to nature for winter strolls.
North Pole, Alaska, took the top spot with an overall cozy Christmas score of 93.34. The town features the highest average snowfall in December with 15 inches, the most quaint cabins available over Christmas, the lowest average temperature at -7.5°F and, well, it’s called North Pole. It does, however, have the fewest malls, so you’ll have to do your shopping in advance.
At number two is Park City, Utah, with an overall cozy Christmas score of 71.15. Here, you’ll find plenty of cozy cabins to rent, a high average snowfall, low average temps, and plenty of holiday activities and opportunities for wintry walks.
Coming in at number three is Denver, Colorado. The city scored 61.8 as it features a high number of cozy Christmas venues, the third highest number of ice skating rinks and the most major Christmas markets (tied with Asheville and Washington, D.C.).
Wrapping up the top five are Kennebunkport, Maine and Asheville, North Carolina.
If you’re ready to get away and get in the holiday spirit, start booking those cozy cabins now.
The top 10 coziest cities for a Christmas getaway
- North Pole, Alaska
- Park City, Utah
- Denver, Colorado
- Kennebunkport, Maine
- Asheville, North Carolina
- New York, New York
- Branson, Missouri
- Seattle, Washington
- Newport Beach, California
- Nashville, Tennessee