While we know this area takes the holiday season seriously — Grapevine is the Christmas Capital of Texas, after all — there are cities around the world built for winter tourism. So whether you are looking for a romantic December getaway or a new location to take your kids, here are a few seasonal destinations worth the trip. Pack your heaviest coats and plenty of thermal socks, because it’s going to be chilly out there.
ICEHOTEL — Jukkasjärvi, Sweden
Located in the small village of Jukkasjärvi, ICEHOTEL attracts cold weather enthusiasts and luxury jetsetters thanks to its picturesque winter backdrop. The hotel gained international attention after opening year-round in 2016 thanks to its unique natural architectural achievements. Crafted with 2,500 ice blocks from the Torne River and snow, ICEHOTEL attracts about 70,000 guests per year who can either enjoy their stay in the warm cabins on site or in the rooms made of ice and snow. After checking in, ICEHOTEL’s staff will ensure guests have everything they need to stay safe throughout their reservation — the temperature inside the hotel never drops below 23 degrees Fahrenheit. But there’s more to do than just sleep. The winter destination features skiing, husky sledding, Northern Light tours and ice sculpting, perfect for those who want to check some seasonal activities off their bucket lists.
Aurora Bubble — Nellim, Finland
For a winter experience centered on the Northern Lights, book a stay in the Aurora Bubbles at the Nellim Wilderness Hotel in Finland. These two-person unique lodging accommodations take stargazing to a whole new level. Guests will be able to not only enjoy sights of the winter backdrop but also, if they are lucky, a clear view of the vibrant Northern Lights. After booking your room, make the most out of your stay by enjoying winter activities like snowmobiling, snowshoeing or visiting the nearby reindeer farm. These intimate rooms may not have a customary bathroom and have limited space for luggage, but it is sure to be a romantic trip you’ll remember for a lifetime. That being said, it might be best to leave the kids at home for this one. Nellim.fi
Aspen, Colorado
Winter entertainment doesn’t require international travel. Aspen, Colorado, provides world-class skiing and snowboarding for Rocky Mountains’ tourists. After hitting the slopes, guests can relax in one of the city’s luxury accommodations, with the area’s quality hotels and lodging options acting as one of the largest reasons the city attracts the rich and famous year after year. Whether you unwind at Aspen Brewing Company or over a glass of wine at Element 47, traveling foodies will get the same thrill as adventure seekers after checking out the city’s dining scene. Both couples and families will love cozying up by the fire and taking in all that Aspen has to offer. Colorado.com
North Pole, Alaska
It’s Christmas 365 days a year in North Pole, Alaska. This cold-weather U.S. destination may have a total population of 2,200 residents, but it has enough holiday spirit to keep tourists coming back year after year. Guests can drive down Santa Claus Lane and Kris Kringle Drive as they enjoy the novelty of the area, including the North Pole Post Office that receives more than 400,000 letters every year addressed to Old Saint Nick. Guests can even swing by Santa Claus House, adorning endless aisles of Christmas ornaments and toys as well as a 42-foot statue of Santa. North Pole is only a 15-minute drive from Fairbanks for those looking for a larger winter destination. There, guests will find dog mushing, the Chena Hot Springs and the Reindeer Ranch, perfect for entertaining not only the kids but also the adults on your excursion. TravelAlaska.com
Historic Petit-Champlain Street — Quebec City
Cobblestoned streets dusted with snow, strands of hanging garland with lights and old timey holiday decor take over Quebec City’s Historic PetitChamplain Street from November to March. This charming neighborhood shopping district comes to life every December with Christmas charm — resembling a real-life Hallmark movie. Imagine walking through the street’s countless boutiques and galleries, browsing the location’s seasonal amenities while sipping on a hot cup of apple cider. Whether you travel there before the new year or plan your trip around its annual Carnaval de Quebec, currently scheduled for February 5-14, you’ll be walking in a winter wonderland. Quebec-Cite.com