It's the most wonderful time of the year ... to go on a festive holiday trip! Whether you're returning to your family's annual holiday traditions or looking for new and exciting ways to celebrate after a long year, there are a ton of unique options for planning a magical and safe Christmas getaway full of festive cheer, beautiful scenery and fun holiday events. Some say there's no place like home for the holidays — but what could be better than spending Christmas at a chocolate theme park, a ski resort or even a town called Santa Claus?

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To help you have the merriest holiday season yet, we've rounded up some of the best places to spend Christmas in the U.S., from fun family resorts and towns named after Christmas itself to festive gatherings held just for the holiday season. Like last year, you'll of course want to make sure you're following safe travel guidelines — and luckily, plenty of destinations are still offering special holiday events focusing on outdoor activities such as drive-thru light displays, sleigh rides and more. So whether you're looking for palm trees and sunny shores or want to cozy up in a snowy cabin, make sure to check out these festive family vacation spots for the best Christmas getaways in 2021.

For more Christmas ideas, check out the Good Housekeeping 2021 Holiday Guide for holiday decor ideas, Christmas games and activities, holiday recipes and popular gift ideas.