8 Festive Hotel Escapes
Eight Luxury Hotels That Capture the Christmas Spirit
As the holiday season draws near, a sense of wonder fills the air. Some of the finest hotels across the U.S. transform into enchanting destinations full of festive charm and family-friendly activities. From nightly “snowfalls” and breathtaking light displays to gingerbread houses you can step inside, these hotels create unforgettable Christmas experiences. Whether you're looking for classic Christmas elegance or a cozy, rustic holiday in the mountains, our curated list of hotels is ready to make this Christmas magical. Get ready to explore our favorite destinations that blend luxury with the joy of the season, creating the perfect holiday escape for you and your loved ones.
The Charleston Place Hotel, Charleston, SC
At The Charleston Place, the holidays are a sight to behold with the annual Festival of Trees, a longstanding tradition showcasing a stunning array of Christmas trees, each creatively decorated by local businesses to capture the spirit of Charleston’s vibrant community. Adding to the enchantment, “snow” falls nightly at Market Street Circle, transforming the area into a winter wonderland. Families can enjoy festive displays, holiday-themed shopping, and cozy dining options that make Charleston Place a beloved Christmas destination.
VIP PERKS - When you book through our Virtuoso Link you will receive special ameneties such as:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily breakfast credit of $45 per person, for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
$100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit utilized during stay
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
*See the link for more details.
Photos Courtesy of The Charleston Place and Beth SimmsRitz Carlton Lake Oconee, Greensboro, GA
This lakeside Ritz-Carlton creates a festive escape that embraces Southern holiday charm. Families will enjoy the annual “Lighting at the Lake” ceremony, complete with Santa’s arrival by boat, holiday crafts, gingerbread house decorating, and cozy fireside s’mores. Special seasonal events, including a Santa’s Workshop and holiday brunches, make it perfect for creating memorable family moments surrounded by beautiful lake views.
VIP PERKS - When you book through our Virtuoso Link you will receive special ameneties such as:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant and via in-room dining
$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Bookings in our Lake House will also receive a customized experience of the guests' choice (to be selected prior to arrival)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
*See the link for more details.
Photos Courtesy of The Ritz - Lake Oconee and Megan MillerThe Peninsula New York - NYC
Located on Fifth Avenue, The Peninsula offers an enchanting Christmas experience, transforming its elegant space with garlands, twinkling lights, and stunning rooftop views. During December, guests can enjoy a festive tree-lighting ceremony on the hotel’s rooftop bar, Salon de Ning, complete with cocktails, canapés, and live caroling on weekends. Families are also in for a treat: The Peninsula partners with FAO Schwarz to create a magical "Holiday Fun" package, which includes an in-room Christmas tree, a private shopping experience, a candy cane scavenger hunt, and a gingerbread decorating kit for little ones.
For their “Nights Before Christmas” package, children on the "nice" list will be rewarded with an in-room candy cane scavenger hunt, gingerbread cookie decorating kit, Christmas holiday gifts, exclusive access to The Peninsula Sweet Shoppe, and more.
VIP PERKS - When you book through our Virtuoso Link you will receive special ameneties such as:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant and via in-room dining
$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (excluding Vu Hair Salon, valet parking and car transfers, not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Flexible Check-In / Check-Out times
Complimentary Wi-Fi
*See the link for more details.
Photos Courtesy of The Peninsula New YorkThe Resort at Paws Up in Greenough, Montana
Known for its luxury accommodations and breathtaking wilderness setting, this resort embraces a “White Christmas” vibe with activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, and even gingerbread house-building workshops. Families can enjoy holiday packages that include accommodations in a festive home with a Christmas tree, all meals, and a special visit from Santa on Christmas Eve. For those looking for a rustic yet high-end holiday experience, The Resort at Paws Up delivers a picturesque holiday season amidst the snow-capped beauty of Montana’s landscape.
VIP PERKS - When you book through our Virtuoso Link you will receive special ameneties such as:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
Complimentary round-trip airport transfers
Bottle of wine in room on arrival
A $300 USD activity credit, to be utilized during stay (
Early check-in, late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
*See the link for more details.
Photos Courtesy of The Resort at Paws Up RanchThe Hermitage Hotel - Nashville
The Hermitage Hotel in Nashville stands out as a top luxury destination for the holiday season. This historic hotel goes all out with festive experiences, blending Nashville charm with timeless holiday elegance. Known for its classical Southern ambiance, the hotel offers special holiday experiences such as the Hermitage Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, which brings together guests and locals for an enchanting evening. Families can enjoy seasonal workshops, holiday crafts, and even a visit from Santa. Holiday décor fills the hotel, complementing its elegant, historic interiors with a touch of Christmas warmth.
VIP PERKS - When you book through our Virtuoso Link you will receive special ameneties such as:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily breakfast credit of $45 per person, for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the hotel restaurant
$100 USD Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Stays of 5+ nights will receive an additional $100 Food & Beverage credit (for a total of $200 during stay)
Stays of 10+ nights will receive an additional $200 USD Food & Beverage credit (for a total of $300 during stay)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
*See the link for more details.
Photos Courtesy of The Hermitage and Kayla JonesNemacolin, Farmington, PA
Nemacolin Resort goes all-out with a "Winter Wonderland" experience that features beautifully decorated gardens and festive lights across the property. Their holiday program includes activities like breakfast with Santa, caroling, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a delightful “Holiday Light Tour” through the stunning Laurel Highlands. Families can also enjoy themed workshops, seasonal culinary offerings, and unique holiday performances, making Nemacolin an immersive Christmas destination.
During the holidays, the spirit of the season is everywhere at Nemacolin — even in your room! Treat the kids to a truly unforgettable experience by surprising them with a bedtime visit from one of Santa’s elves. When you reserve this magical experience, an elf will travel from the North Pole to the door of your room or residence at Nemacolin, bringing your kids a book, stocking, and heaping dose of Christmas cheer. Mom and Dad, you can choose whether the elf drops off the items at the door or the elf comes in to read your child a bedtime story.
VIP PERKS - When you book through our Virtuoso Link you will receive special ameneties such as:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in Hotel restaurant or via room service
$100 USD Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
*See the link for more details.
Photos Courtesy of Nemacolin and Jen SmithDisney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Orlando, FL
The Grand Floridian is famous for its life-sized gingerbread house, a central attraction that brings Disney holiday magic to life. Throughout December, families can enjoy classic Disney holiday décor, meet-and-greets with favorite characters dressed in holiday attire, and special seasonal treats. As a nod to classic Christmas films, the resort’s Victorian-inspired decorations and elegant ambiance evoke nostalgia, making it a fantastic choice for families visiting Disney World during the holidays.
Big Cedar Lodge, Ridgedale, MO
At Big Cedar Lodge, Christmas transforms the Ozarks into a festive dreamscape. Highlights include the “Winter Wonderland Workshop,” where kids can craft ornaments and stockings, and nightly holiday light displays featuring millions of twinkling lights. Family favorites include visits from Santa, holiday wagon rides, and even a train ride through the decorated grounds, creating an experience that captures the magic of an old-fashioned holiday.
Photos Courtesy of Big Cedar