5 Perfect Winter Holiday Destinations

Plan a trip to one of these cities that turn into magical wonderlands during this time of year.

As winter quickly approaches, embrace the magic of the colder months with the perfect seasonal getaway. We’ve curated a list of the top five places you should visit to celebrate the holiday season (and the months beyond!) Whether you seek a snowy retreat or a milder escape, these cities promise to offer an enchanting mix of culture, cuisine, and charm to make your winter escape truly unforgettable. 

New York City

Just behind the North Pole on our list of cities with the most festive spirit, New York City sparkles extra bright during the winter season, particularly for the holidays. From the Radio City Rockettes to its bustling holiday markets to the illuminated window displays, New York City is a spectacular sight to see. And you can celebrate the end of the year as the ball drops in Times Square on New Year’s Eve. Club Quarters Hotel, Times Square-Midtown makes for a convenient home base if you’re visiting during this time of year. 

Also, during the winter months, visitors can take a spin on one of the city’s many ice rinks including one in Bryant Park, located close to Club Quarters Hotel, Grand Central. Or if it snows, bundle up and go sledding in Central Park. Plus, it’s easy to stay warm thanks to plenty of indoor activities and attractions to do and see here.

London

Like New York City, London becomes a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with impressive decorations and twinkling lights galore. During Christmastime, tourists and locals alike take in “pantomime” plays, a quirky English tradition primarily aimed at kids. Most performances are put on prior to Christmas, but you still might be able to catch one through the beginning of the new year.

Other festive things to do in London during the winter include browsing Borough Market, which is filled with food trucks and coffee shops; be sure to grab a cup of warm, cozy cocoa here. Go ice skating at Somerset House’s iconic rink or settle in for afternoon tea at the Ritz or Claridge’s. All Club Quarters Hotels in London are located close to the city’s top attractions, so you don’t have to be out in the cold for long when bouncing between sites.

San Francisco

While the weather in San Francisco is generally cooler in the winter as compared to the rest of the year, it’s not too cold to enjoy outdoor activities. Starting in December, you can join a whale-watching tour to see gray, sperm, and killer whales that migrate to the coast of San Francisco during this time. You might also spot dolphins, leatherback turtles, and sea lions.

A little later in winter, around February of each year, San Francisco celebrates the Chinese New Year with an almost monthlong roster of events, including a parade with colorful dragons, lion dancers, drums, and lanterns that travels through downtown. Club Quarters Hotel, Embarcadero, situated in one of the most convenient areas in San Francisco, serves as a great spot for joining in on the festivities. When you’re there, don’t forget to swing by Ghirardelli Square for a cup of yummy hot chocolate!

Houston

As the home of NASA, Houston boasts some out-of-this-world light displays around the holidays. The Galaxy Lights spectacle, a space-themed holiday light show, orbits the Space Center Houston, from mid-November to the beginning of January. Plus, every year the Houston Zoo hosts its own dazzling light display called Zoo Lights.

Need to buy some last-minute gifts? Head to the Galleria, Texas’ largest shopping center with hundreds of stores and restaurants; it’s a short drive from our Club Quarters Hotel, Downtown in Houston.

Washington, D.C.

One of the benefits of visiting D.C. in the winter? Smaller crowds. Although you might have to bundle up a bit, you’ll be able to easily see and enjoy the historical sites and monuments without throngs of tourists. Ice skating rinks can be found all around town, including one on the Georgetown waterfront and on the rooftop of the Watergate Hotel.

In January, the city also hosts special events commemorating Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday. Located near the White House, Club Quarters Hotel provides the perfect place to warm up while touring the city.

Ready for your next getaway? Jump-start your winter travel plans during our annual Cyber Sale! For a limited time only, receive up to 30% off our best available rates when you book by November 29.