Best Guided Christmas Tours Across America
As the holiday season approaches, many individuals and families seek unique ways to celebrate Christmas. One of the most memorable ways to soak in the festive spirit is through guided Christmas tours across America. These tours offer a chance to experience the holiday season in some of the most beautifully decorated cities and quaint towns. In this article, we will explore a variety of guided Christmas tours that showcase the magic of the season, highlighting their unique features, itineraries, and what makes them special.
1. New York City: A Classic Christmas Experience
New York City is renowned for its extravagant Christmas celebrations. The guided tours available during this season are designed to showcase iconic landmarks adorned with holiday decorations. Highlights of these tours typically include visits to:
Rockefeller Center
The famous Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center is a must-see. Visitors can marvel at the towering tree and the ice-skating rink below, often accompanied by festive music. Guided tours provide insights into the history of this iconic location.
Dyker Heights
Known for its extravagant holiday lights, Dyker Heights in Brooklyn offers a dazzling display that draws crowds every year. A guided tour will take you through the neighborhood, where you can see homes that go all out with decorations, making it a true winter wonderland.
Central Park
A stroll through Central Park during the winter months is enchanting. Many tours include a walk through the park, where visitors can see snow-covered landscapes and perhaps even experience a horse-drawn carriage ride.
2. Chicago: A Winter Wonderland
Chicago offers a blend of cultural experiences and festive celebrations during the Christmas season. Guided tours in this city often include visits to:
Christkindlmarket
This traditional German Christmas market captures the essence of the holidays with its unique gifts and delicious treats. A guided tour will help you navigate the market, ensuring you don’t miss out on its signature glühwein (mulled wine).
Lincoln Park Zoo Lights
Lincoln Park Zoo transforms into a glowing spectacle during the holidays. The guided tours provide a chance to see the zoo lit up with millions of lights, offering a delightful experience for families.
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Many tours include attendance at the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, a spectacular event where the holiday lights are turned on along Michigan Avenue. Visitors can enjoy live music and festive entertainment.
3. San Francisco: A Coastal Christmas
San Francisco’s Christmas tours offer a unique twist, combining beautiful coastal views with festive cheer. Notable spots often included in guided tours are:
Union Square
The heart of San Francisco during the holidays, Union Square features a massive Christmas tree and an ice skating rink. Guided tours typically provide insights into the history and significance of this bustling area during the holiday season.
Holiday Lights Tour
Visitors can enjoy a holiday lights tour showcasing the best-decorated neighborhoods in San Francisco. The festive atmosphere can be experienced through the beautifully lit streets.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf offers a unique waterfront experience during the holidays. Guided tours often include stops at local shops and eateries, providing a taste of holiday treats and local culture.
4. Nashville: A Country Christmas
Nashville, known for its rich musical heritage, transforms into a festive destination during Christmas. Guided tours often highlight:
Opryland Hotel
The Opryland Hotel features stunning holiday decorations, including elaborate light displays and themed exhibits. Guided tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at this holiday destination.
Country Music Hall of Fame
During the Christmas season, the Country Music Hall of Fame offers special exhibits and events. Tours often include visits to see how country music artists celebrate the holidays.
Parthenon in Centennial Park
The Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the original in Athens, is beautifully decorated for the holidays. A guided tour will ensure visitors appreciate the juxtaposition of classical architecture and festive spirit.
5. Boston: Historic Holiday Celebrations
Boston’s rich history adds a unique flavor to its Christmas tours. Visitors can expect to see:
Boston Common and Public Garden
The Boston Common is the oldest public park in the United States and becomes a festive gathering place during the holidays. Guided tours often include visits to the park’s beautiful holiday lights and decorations.
Faneuil Hall Marketplace
This historic marketplace is transformed into a holiday destination with its festive lights and decorations. Tours often include opportunities to shop for unique gifts while enjoying street performers and holiday entertainment.
North End’s Italian Christmas
The North End is known for its Italian heritage and delicious food. Guided tours frequently include stops at local bakeries where visitors can sample traditional Italian Christmas treats.
6. Philadelphia: The City of Brotherly Love
Philadelphia offers a rich array of holiday experiences, making it a prime destination for guided Christmas tours. Highlights often include:
Christmas Village in Love Park
The Christmas Village features a traditional German market with handcrafted gifts, food, and drinks. A guided tour ensures that visitors enjoy the best of this festive gathering.
Philadelphia Zoo Lights
The Philadelphia Zoo hosts a spectacular light display during the holiday season. Tours typically provide an opportunity to see the animals and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Liberty Bell and Independence Hall
Guided tours often include visits to historical sites like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, offering a glimpse into the nation’s history during a festive time.
7. Washington, D.C.: A National Celebration
Washington, D.C. provides a unique setting for Christmas celebrations with its iconic landmarks. Guided tours typically include visits to:
National Christmas Tree
The National Christmas Tree, located near the White House, is a central feature of holiday festivities. Tours often include information about its history and significance.
Capitol Christmas Tree
The Capitol Christmas Tree is another emblematic display. Guided tours allow visitors to learn about the tree’s origins and the traditions surrounding it.
Holiday Market at The Wharf
The Wharf hosts a holiday market featuring local artisans and food vendors. Guided tours provide insights into local culture while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
8. Aspen: A Ski Resort Christmas
For those who enjoy winter sports, Aspen offers guided tours that combine skiing with holiday festivities. Attractions include:
Skiing and Snowboarding
Guided tours often include access to some of the best slopes, allowing visitors to enjoy the winter sports scene while surrounded by festive decorations.
Downtown Aspen Holiday Lights
Downtown Aspen is beautifully lit during the holiday season, and guided tours often feature evening walks to appreciate the stunning displays.
Local Holiday Events
Many tours include participation in local holiday events, such as parades and festivals, showcasing the community spirit during this season.
9. Charleston: A Southern Christmas
Charleston offers a charming Southern twist to Christmas celebrations. Guided tours often feature:
Historic Homes Tour
Many of Charleston’s historic homes are beautifully decorated for the holidays. Guided tours provide a unique opportunity to visit these homes and learn about their history.
Holiday Market at Waterfront Park
The Waterfront Park hosts a holiday market with local vendors, crafts, and food. Tours often include a chance to taste traditional Southern holiday treats.
Charleston City Market
A visit to the Charleston City Market during the holidays allows travelers to shop for unique gifts while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
10. How to Book on Viator
Booking a guided Christmas tour can be easily done through Viator. Visit the following link to find and book your preferred tour: Viator Booking Page.
Conclusion
Guided Christmas tours across America offer unique opportunities to celebrate the holiday season. From the dazzling lights of New York City to the charming streets of Charleston, each tour provides a distinctive experience enriched with local culture and traditions. To find more information on various tours, visit Tourlik.
Disclaimer: This information is accurate to the best of our knowledge; however, there may be changes or mistakes. Please verify exact details on the Viator booking page.