A Ho Ho Ho-liday Guide to Southeastern United States Christmas Destinations

Georgia

• Dahlonega: Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Dahlonega is a charming town that transforms into a winter wonderland during the holidays. Enjoy festive lights, horse-drawn carriage rides and the annual Christmas Parade. This quaint town has been featured in several Hallmark holiday movies.

• Helen: This Bavarian-themed village offers a unique Christmas experience with German-style shops, restaurants and a Christmas market. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, sip on warm spiced wine and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Missouri

• St. Charles: This historic town is known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture and charming downtown district. During the holidays, St. Charles is adorned with festive lights, and the Lewis and Clark Boat House is transformed into a winter wonderland.

Virginia

• Charlottesville: Surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, Charlottesville offers a picturesque setting for a Christmas getaway. Explore the Downtown Mall, decorated with festive lights, or enjoy a Christmas concert at the Paramount Theater.

• Williamsburg: Step back in time and experience a colonial Christmas in Williamsburg. Visit historic landmarks, enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, and participate in traditional holiday activities.

North Carolina

• Asheville: Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a charming mountain escape during the holidays. Explore the Biltmore Estate, adorned with festive lights, or visit the River Arts District for unique holiday gifts.

• McAdenville: Known as "Christmas Town USA," McAdenville is famous for its elaborate Christmas decorations and synchronized light show. Stroll through the town and admire the festive displays.

Tennessee

• Gatlinburg: This mountain town offers a festive atmosphere with holiday lights, Christmas markets and the Dollywood Christmas festival. Enjoy outdoor activities like ice skating or take a scenic drive through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Kentucky

• Bardstown: Known as the "Bourbon Capital of the World," Bardstown also offers a charming Christmas experience. Visit historic landmarks, enjoy festive decorations and sample local bourbon.

Louisiana

• Natchitoches: This historic town is known for its beautiful Christmas lights, steamboat cruises and the annual Christmas Festival. Explore the historic district, visit the St. Denis State Historic Site or enjoy a festive meal at a local restaurant.

Georgia

Dahlonega

• Spirits Tavern: This farm-to-table tavern offers a cozy atmosphere and is known for their burger selection.

Helen

• The Heidelberg: This Bavarian-themed restaurant serves authentic German cuisine, including schnitzels, bratwurst and pretzels.

Missouri

St. Charles

• Gingham’s: A family favorite known for their fried chicken.

Virginia

Charlottesville

• The Ivy Inn: This upscale restaurant offers refined locavore American fare served in an early 19th-century house with an Old Virginia feel.

Williamsburg

• The King's Arms Tavern: Enjoy a casual meal in this tavern-style restaurant with a colonial-inspired menu.

North Carolina

Asheville

• The Omni Grove Park Inn: This historic hotel offers a festive atmosphere and a variety of dining options, including The Laurel and The Terrace.

McAdenville

• Terra Mia: Known for fresh pizza dough and three rotating varieties of pasta made fresh daily

Tennessee

Gatlinburg

• The Local Goat: Enjoy a casual meal in this restaurant with a farm-to-table menu.

Kentucky

Bardstown

• The Old Talbott Tavern: This historic tavern offers a festive atmosphere and a menu featuring Southern comfort food.

Louisiana

Natchitoches

• Lasyone’s Meat Pie Restaurant: This family-owned restaurant offers a festive atmosphere and a menu featuring authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine.