Winter Wonderlands: Top Festive Getaways for Southern Travelers

As the holiday season approaches, many Southern travelers start dreaming of snowy

landscapes, twinkling lights, and cozy evenings by the fire. While winter weather may be rare in

the South, there are plenty of destinations just a short trip away where you can experience the

magic of the season. Whether you’re looking to ski, visit a Christmas market, or simply enjoy the

festive ambiance of a charming small town, these five winter wonderlands offer the perfect

holiday escape.

Asheville, North Carolina: Cozy Mountain Charm

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, North Carolina, is a magical winter

destination, especially for Southern travelers seeking the perfect blend of festive charm and

natural beauty. The city’s vibrant arts scene, historical attractions, and mountain views make it a

cozy getaway that’s ideal for the holiday season.

The iconic Biltmore Estate is a must-see during the holidays. Each year, this grand mansion is

decked out with thousands of twinkling lights, over 100 Christmas trees, and elaborate

decorations. The Candlelight Christmas Evenings add to the enchantment, offering live music

and candle-lit tours through the festively decorated halls. If gingerbread houses spark your

holiday spirit, don’t miss the National Gingerbread House Competition at The Omni Grove

Park Inn, where intricately designed gingerbread creations are on display.

Asheville also offers easy access to winter activities like skiing and snowboarding at

Cataloochee Ski Area, located just outside the city. For something more peaceful, a scenic

hike along the Blue Ridge Parkway offers breathtaking winter views, with frost-covered trees

and snow-dusted mountain peaks.

Leavenworth, Washington: A Bavarian Christmas Wonderland

For a truly unique holiday experience, head to Leavenworth, Washington—a Bavarian-style

village that transforms into a picture-perfect Christmas town during the holiday season. This

small town, nestled in the Cascade Mountains, offers a European holiday experience without the

need for international travel.

The Christmas Lighting Festival is the star of the season in Leavenworth, where the entire

town is illuminated with over half a million lights. Carolers dressed in Bavarian costumes roam

the streets, adding to the festive spirit. Visitors can shop at the Christkindlmarkt, a traditional

German Christmas market offering handmade gifts, ornaments, and delicious holiday treats like

gingerbread and mulled wine. Don’t forget to visit the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm, where you

can meet real reindeer!

Leavenworth’s location in the Cascades makes it a winter sports haven. Skiing, snowboarding,

and tubing are available at nearby Stevens Pass, while snowshoeing and sleigh rides offer

more relaxed ways to enjoy the snowy landscape.

Aspen, Colorado: Luxury Winter Wonderland

Aspen, Colorado, is known for its world-class skiing, upscale shopping, and luxurious

accommodations, making it the ultimate winter wonderland for those seeking a glamorous

holiday escape. With snow-covered mountains, high-end boutiques, and festive events, Aspen

is perfect for travelers looking to combine outdoor adventure with a touch of luxury.

Aspen’s 12 Days of Aspen celebration brings the town alive with holiday events, including tree

lighting ceremonies, ice skating, holiday concerts, and family-friendly activities. The town’s

upscale restaurants and boutiques make it easy to get into the holiday spirit, whether you’re

shopping for gifts or indulging in a gourmet meal after a day on the slopes.

Aspen offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the country, with its four mountains

catering to all skill levels. But even if skiing isn’t your thing, there’s plenty to do—from

snowmobiling and dog sledding to taking in the views on a scenic gondola ride. For an

unforgettable experience, take a hot air balloon ride over the snow-covered mountains for a

breathtaking aerial view of Aspen’s winter beauty.

Woodstock, Vermont: Quintessential New England Christmas

If your holiday fantasies include snow-covered streets, historic inns, and charming small-town

vibes, Woodstock, Vermont, should be at the top of your list. This idyllic New England town

offers a cozy, traditional Christmas experience, complete with horse-drawn carriages,

handmade holiday crafts, and snow-dusted trees.

Woodstock’s annual Wassail Weekend is the centerpiece of the holiday season, featuring a

holiday parade, historic home tours, and a winter market filled with artisanal crafts and festive

treats. The town is adorned with lights and wreaths, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for

holiday photos.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Woodstock offers cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking

through nearby Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. You can also hit the

slopes at Suicide Six Ski Area, a charming, family-friendly ski resort just outside town.

Each of these winter wonderlands offers something special, whether it’s the festive lights of

Leavenworth’s Bavarian village, the luxury of Aspen’s mountain resorts, or the cozy charm of

Woodstock’s New England streets. For Southern travelers looking to trade warm weather for

snow and holiday magic, these destinations offer the perfect holiday escape.

Whether you’re hitting the slopes, wandering through a Christmas market, or simply relaxing by

the fire with a cup of cocoa, these five destinations will give you the festive winter experience

you’ve been dreaming of