Over the last few years, we’ve tried to focus on holiday experiences rather than gifts. Our kids can’t tell you many of the gifts they’ve received but do remember the places we’ve visited! Here are a few of our favorite holiday destinations.
The Greenbrier
Ohhh…The Greenbrier is just one of my most favorite places on Earth! I could just cry thinking about how special this place is! There’s even a movie now, Christmas at The Greenbier! The Greenbrier goes all out during the holiday with the tree lighting, breakfast with Santa in the Main Dining Hall, the most delicious handmade chocolates and so many activities! My kids love the Greenbrier! Read about our time at The Greenbrier here.
Staycation at Opryland
You don’t have to leave Nashville to enjoy a magical destination! Gaylord Opryland is a Christmas wonderful with beautiful decorations, festive Christmas activities and offerings for the whole family! Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, you can enjoy SO.MUCH.CHRISTMAS and many of the activities! Check out the packages and tickets here. {Use code SOCIAL30 by Nov. 21st for 30% off ICE! tickets, valid Sunday-Thursday, through December 15th!}
Asheville, NC
Asheville is a short drive from Nashville and is a wintery, mountain destination! The Grove Park Inn is a Christmas movie type of setting with scenic views, splendid decorations and their 12 days of Gingerbread House competition! Just a short drive away is the Biltmore House, which is one of the prettiest places to visit at Christmas! Downtown Asheville also has many charming shops and restaurants.
Yeah That Greenville, SC
My adorable hometown pulls out all the stops during the holidays with an ice skating rink downtown, Festival of Trees, concerts at The Peace Center and twinkling lights all throughout downtown! You can read more about Greenville and our visit there this summer. The Westin Poinsett is a dreamy place to stay, right in the heart of Main Street! And fun fact: George Clooney took up residence there while filming a movie in Greenville!
Charleston, SC
Charleston tops all the lists of places to travel to, year round but it is especially picturesque during the holidays! Steeped in history, you’ll want to take a horse-carriage ride through the Battery to see the homes all dressed for Christmas. James Island Holiday Lights are fun for the whole family and of course, enjoy some of Charleston’s delicious fare. A few favorites are Frannie and The Fox, Poogan’s Porch, and Kaminsky’s is a must for the best dessert! Read more Charleston posts here.
Highlands, NC
A few years ago after visiting family in Greenville, we decided to make a pit stop in Highlands, NC on the way home! This town really knows how to celebrate the holidays! It’s truly such a quaint town to stroll through! There’s an ice rink in town, adorable shops and a ski resort is not too far away! Old Edwards Inn is a top-rated place to stay!
Barnsley
You guys know we are big fans of Barnsley! Only a little over 3 hours from Nashville, it’s a quick trip! This family-friendly spot is laid back and has a variety of activities including outdoor games, farm animals, bikes that you can borrow and onsite dining opportunities! We also love taking one of our pups with us when we visit!
Fairhope
Fairhope is the sweetest town and spending time there during the holidays there are treat! From Movie in the Street to the darling Christmas parade and ”snow”, it’s just like putting yourself right onto set of Hallmark! The Grand is beautiful all decked out in decor and you may want to ask Santa for a trip to the spa! The downtown shops host an open house to encourage shopping small! You can also find Santa at the Fairhope Museum of History on Saturdays! If you need a Fairhope gift, check out my coloring guide!
Where are some of your favorite places to visit during the holidays?