Last Christmas Nova and I decided to have a holiday experience across America, and wow, it was such an incredible pleasure to have. Through MyTravelFellow, we’ve discovered so many amazing places—places we didn’t expect by any means. From picturesque snow-capped mountain towns to warm cities all lit up for the season, each region felt like its own little Christmas miracle
We spent our days wandering around the Christmas markets, having hot cocoa and just soaking in the festive atmosphere. One night we find ourselves trudging down a snowy road, all huddled together, surrounded by gleaming light machines. I swear, it felt like stepping into a Christmas movie. The whole trip changed so specially for us, we often treated it like Christmas when we experienced the magic of the season together.
Last Christmas, Nova and I wanted to enjoy the magic of the holidays without spending too much money. We quickly learned that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to have fun. Thanks to MyTravelFellow, we found many affordable places that looked like something out of a Christmas movie. From quaint mountain towns to bustling city streets, we were blown away by how much fun we could have without breaking the bank.
We spent our days walking around the Christmas markets, drinking hot cocoa and enjoying the beautiful lights, all while staying within our budget. It really struck us that the best part of the holidays is the time you spend together and the memories you make, not the amount of money you spend. The trip was the perfect reminder that you can have a magical, unforgettable Christmas without spending too much.
We’re excited to share our journey with you and hope it inspires other couples to find affordable Christmas destinations There’s a lot of holiday magic to be had without spending a fortune, and along the way we’ve found some amazing places which we think everyone can enjoy Whether it’s beautiful cities with snowy streets or cities sparkling with festive cheer we want to show that good holidays can be remembered with a smile.
We will share all the details of our trip, such as the hidden gems we found and the expensive places we visited, so that other couples can experience the same magic without breaking the bank Our hope is that by sharing our story are you encouraged to create your own Christmas memories no matter where you go or how much you spend around |
Criteria for Choosing Affordable Christmas Destinations
Criteria for Choosing Affordable Christmas Destinations: Mike and Nova’s Experience
When Nova and I decided to plan our Christmas trip last year, we had a few key criteria in mind for choosing the perfect, affordable destinations. Here’s what guided our decision-making process:
Budget-Friendly Accommodation One of the first things we considered was where we would stay. We didn’t want to splurge on expensive hotels or resorts. Instead, we focused on places that offered affordable, yet comfortable accommodations. We looked for cozy bed-and-breakfasts or charming inns that offered a warm, holiday atmosphere at a reasonable price. By booking early, we also found some great deals that helped us save on lodging.
Accessible Locations We wanted to make sure the places we chose were easy to get to without having to spend a fortune on travel. So, we looked at destinations with good flight deals or where we could drive to without a long journey. Being able to get to our destinations without the extra cost of a lengthy flight or expensive transportation was a huge factor for us.
Festive Charm Without the Crowds While we love the holiday atmosphere, we didn’t want to deal with large crowds or tourist-heavy spots. We wanted to experience the magic of Christmas in quieter, more peaceful settings. This led us to some lesser-known towns and cities, which still had the holiday charm but without the overwhelming crowds. Places with Christmas markets, twinkling lights, and cozy vibes but not overrun with tourists allowed us to enjoy the season at a more relaxed pace.
Affordable Activities and Attractions We were also conscious of the activities we’d be doing. Instead of pricey events or attractions, we looked for destinations that offered free or low-cost activities. We spent hours walking through Christmas markets, admiring holiday displays, and enjoying free outdoor events like ice skating or carolers. These simple experiences turned out to be the most memorable, and they didn’t cost us much at all.
Local Food and Drinks A big part of our holiday experience was trying local food and drinks, but we were careful to choose places where we could enjoy these without going overboard. We found small, local cafes and restaurants that served delicious holiday meals at affordable prices. Hot cocoa, seasonal pastries, and local treats became the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit without blowing our budget.
Winter Wonderland Vibes We both love the snow and that classic Christmas vibe, so we made sure to pick destinations that offered the charm of winter. Whether it was snow-covered streets or festive decorations, the winter atmosphere was important to us. Luckily, many affordable towns offered that perfect snowy setting that made the holiday season feel even more magical, without needing to travel to pricey ski resorts.
Top Affordable Christmas Getaways in America for Couples
Domestic Christmas Destinations
1. Leavenworth, Washington: Bavarian Wonderland
Last Christmas Nova and I discovered Leavenworth, Washington on MyTravelFellow, and it seemed like the perfect place for a holiday break. The snow covered streets decorated with beautiful Christmas lights made us feel like we were in a Christmas movie. We spent a lot of time walking around, just enjoying the magical setting. The city was so beautiful, with all the lights and snow-it was like a real winter wonderland.
Nonbudget options
One of the best things about Leavenworth was that it didn’t cost much to enjoy the holidays there. We find charming cottages and luxury hotels at reasonable prices. It seemed unusual, but it was nice to stay somewhere that didn’t break our budget. We also found fun things to do, like sleigh rides in the snow, which were inexpensive but really added to the holiday experience.
Moments of romance
One of the most romantic things we envisioned was the Christmas tree lighting. We can imagine ourselves sitting by a warm fire drinking hot cocoa and watching the tree glow in all the twinkling lights. It was the perfect way to enjoy the holiday season together. Leavenworth seemed like the ideal location for that special memory.
Leavenworth taught us that you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a magical vacation. This is a great place for couples who want to have a relaxing and budget-friendly Christmas.
2. Asheville, North Carolina: A Cozy Mountain Escape
Last 12 months, Nova and I found Asheville, North Carolina through MyTravelFellow, and it quickly have become one in all our favorite holiday destinations. The downtown become lovely, with colourful buildings, lovable little stores and streets all decked out for Christmas. We walked for hours simply taking in the points of interest and sounds of the vacation. One of the highlights became a go to to the Biltmore Estate, which become so magical for the duration of the vacations. The rental was embellished with lighting fixtures and festivities, which made us sense like we have been in a Christmas storybook.
Budget tour guidelines
Asheville is ideal for folks that need to make their holiday trip less expensive. We located out that in case you go to the Biltmore Estate there may be a discount, so we are able to experience the splendor of the vicinity without spending a fortune. We additionally discovered outstanding local cafes to loosen up and have a cup of espresso with touristy locations being highly-priced. And we adore having neighborhood courses inside the city parks. They added to the metropolis’s pageant atmosphere and made the enjoy stand out with loose enjoyment.
Romantic activities
There is a lot to love in Asheville. Our preferred activity was hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The trails were peaceful, beautiful, and a great way to revel in the splendor of nature together. After a day of trekking, we relaxed in a stunning Airbnb room, playing the silence, the hearth, and every other’s enterprise. It changed into a quiet location and we had the romantic getaway we have been dreaming of.
Asheville is the right vicinity for a calming, low-priced excursion getaway. Here you cross from the stunning city to the beautiful mountains
3. Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Mountain Magic for Two
we found Gatlinburg, Tennessee on MyTravelFellow, and it turned out to be an amazing place for a vacation getaway. The town was beautifully decorated for Winterfest, with colorful Christmas lights everywhere. We loved walking the snowy roads, enjoying the charming little town. The lights, little shops and friendly people made us feel like we were in a Christmas movie.
Affordable options
One of the best things about Gatlinburg is its affordability. We found a lovely cottage for a great rent, which was perfect for a relaxing stay. Best of all, many of the Christmas light displays were free! We spent a lot of time walking around the city at night, enjoying the lights and festive atmosphere, all without spending extra money.
Highlights of love – There is so much to love in Gatlinburg. One of our favorite times was hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The roads were quiet, the views amazing, and it was the perfect way to spend time together. We also visited local wineries for wine tasting, which was a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the day. Watching the holiday show was another special experience—it made the holiday season feel truly magical.
Gatlinburg showed us that you can have an unforgettable vacation in the mountains without spending a fortune. The lighting, comfortable rooms and romantic activities made it the perfect setting for this budget holiday vacation.
4. Santa Fe, New Mexico: A blend of culture and beauty on vacation
Last year Nova and I went to Santa Fe, New Mexico, and it was the perfect Christmas getaway for us. The city has a nice blend of Native American culture, Southwestern style and holiday spirit. One of our favorite times was walking through the Canyon, where the light—with those beautiful paper lanterns—and Christmas lights twinkled. This gave them a calm and relaxing vibe that felt very unique.
Santa Fe is full of romantic spots for couples. We enjoyed exploring the local art galleries and shopping at unique little shops. In the evening we relax in a cafe with hot chocolate while enjoying the twinkling lights around the city. Santa Fe really gave us the perfect blend of holiday cheer and romance, making it a great choice for couples looking to enjoy the season together.Santa Fe, New Mexico: A blend of culture and beauty on vacation
Last year Nova and I went to Santa Fe, New Mexico, and it was the perfect Christmas getaway for us. The city has a nice blend of Native American culture, Southwestern style and holiday spirit. One of our favorite times was walking through the Canyon, where the light—with those beautiful paper lanterns—and Christmas lights twinkled. This gave them a calm and relaxing vibe that felt very unique.
Santa Fe is full of romantic spots for couples. We enjoyed exploring the local art galleries and shopping in unique little shops. In the evening we relax in a cafe with hot chocolate while enjoying the twinkling lights around the city. Santa Fe really gave us the perfect blend of holiday cheer and romance, making it a great choice for couples looking to enjoy the season together.
5. Park City, Utah: Mountain resort for couples
Park City, Utah, is a beautiful mountain town perfect for couples looking for a relaxing and festive vacation getaway. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the city is warm and inviting. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy some quality time together.
If you enjoy outdoor activities, Park City has a lot to offer. You can go skiing, snowboarding, or even take a fun sled. For a more relaxing experience, you can enjoy the views while strolling around town or driving through the area to take in the winter beauty. There are also holiday markets where you can buy unique gifts and enjoy the festive feeling.
With its scenic beauty, fun activities and relaxed atmosphere, Park City is an ideal destination for couples who want to enjoy the holidays in a peaceful and romantic setting
6. St. Augustine, Florida
Last year, Nova and I had the chance to visit St. Augustine, Florida, and it quickly became one of our favorite holiday destinations. As the oldest city in the U.S., St. Augustine already has so much charm, but during the holiday season, it transforms into a true Christmas wonderland. The highlight of our visit was the annual Nights of Lights event, where millions of twinkling lights filled the streets. It created a magical atmosphere that felt perfect for a romantic evening stroll.
We loved walking hand-in-hand through the historic streets, surrounded by the warm glow of the lights. The city’s cozy vibe and beautiful decorations made it feel like we were in a holiday movie. Whether we were visiting the historic sites, enjoying a quiet moment at a café, or simply taking in the sights, St. Augustine offered us a truly unforgettable and romantic Christmas experience.
7. Durango, Colorado
After the train ride, we wandered through the town, enjoying the festive shops and cozy lodges. Everything about Durango had a warm, inviting vibe that made it a great place for couples to relax and enjoy the holidays together. Whether you’re shopping or just taking in the views, Durango offers a peaceful and magical Christmas experience in the Rockies.
How to keep costs down while experiencing the magic of Christmas
You don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy a magical Christmas break. Here are some simple tips that Nova and I have found to help save money when traveling on holiday.
1. Book early and travel Off-Peak
Planning your trip in advance is a great way to save money. Plan ahead and get the best deals on hotels and flights. Also try to travel before or after the busy holiday season. Traveling before Christmas or right after New Year’s can save a lot of money, but you’ll also get in the holiday spirit.
2. Choose destinations with free or low-cost activities
Not everything is expensive. Many places offer free holiday activities like Christmas light displays, public ice skating rinks and holiday decorations in the streets. These simple activities can still make your vacation feel special without spending a fortune. We found a few places on MyTravelFellow that offer great vacation experiences at affordable prices.
3. Enjoy affordable Christmas activities
There are many inexpensive ways to enjoy the Christmas season. The local Christmas markets are a great way to see the lights and decorations, and you don’t have to buy anything to enjoy the atmosphere. Ice skating is another exciting and budget-friendly activity, and many places offer affordable public skating time. If you’re in a great location, just driving around the neighborhood to see the Christmas lights can be a great free way to enjoy the holidays.
By following these tips, we had a wonderful Christmas without going over our budget. With a little planning, you can have a magical vacation without spending a fortune.
Couples’ Activities to Make the Holiday Special
Enjoy Winter Walks Together
Take a slow, peaceful walk through a holiday-decorated town or snowy streets. Holding hands while wandering around Christmas markets or parks adds a special touch to the season.Ice Skating for Two
Ice skating is a fun, romantic way to spend time together. Many places have outdoor rinks set up for the holidays, where you can enjoy skating, laugh at each other’s attempts, and just have fun.Hot Chocolate Dates
After a chilly day of exploring, head to a cozy café and share a warm cup of hot chocolate. It’s a simple and sweet way to relax and enjoy the moment together.Tour Christmas Lights
Take a walk or drive to see the holiday lights in different parts of the town. Some places even offer special light tours, making it a fun and festive way to enjoy the season.Holiday Movie Night
After a busy day, snuggle up together and watch your favorite Christmas movies. It’s a cozy and simple way to unwind and enjoy each other’s company.Fun in the Snow
If you’re somewhere snowy, take the opportunity to have some fun in the snow. Build a snowman, have a snowball fight, or go sledding—just enjoy being playful and carefree together.Try a Cooking Class Together
Look for a holiday-themed cooking class and learn to make festive treats like cookies or a holiday meal. Cooking together is a fun and bonding activity.Holiday Spa Day
Treat yourselves to a relaxing spa day with a holiday twist—perhaps a peppermint scrub or winter facial. It’s a perfect way to unwind and enjoy some pampering together.
Packing for a Budget-Friendly Christmas Getaway
Essentials for winter travel
When you’re going on a winter break, it’s important to pack warm, comfortable clothes for all those outdoor adventures. Think layers, comfortable sweaters, scarves, gloves and a good winter coat. That way, no matter how cold it gets, you’ll stay comfortable and ready for anything from snowshoeing to ice skating in the park.
Install lighting and save on material costs
Try to install lighting to save money. Bring only what you need and avoid checking heavy luggage to avoid extra luggage costs. A small carry-on bag can often be enough if you pack wisely. Fold clothes to save space and use packing cubes to organize items.
Bring a personal touch for a romantic vibe
Make your trip even more special by packing a few personal touches. A small vacation themed gift for your partner, playing relaxing music for a long drive, or even a notebook to capture memories along the way can make the experience feel like it’s a great love. These little touches will help create a personal atmosphere and make the holiday season feel extra special.
Conclusion: The Perfect, Affordable Christmas Getaway
Looking back on our holiday travels, Nova and I realized that you don’t have to spend a fortune to have an unforgettable Christmas. We visited many beautiful, budget-friendly places full of holiday cheer. Whether we’re exploring scenic cities or enjoying Christmas lights, we find that simple activities like walking the festive parks or sharing a hot cocoa make the experience special
If you want to create a couple’s lasting memories, remember that the best times don’t always come with the highest prices. Spending time together, enjoying the little moments, and capturing the magic of the holiday makes the moment truly memorable.
We’d love to hear about your own affordable Christmas break! Share your experience in the comments section or tag us on social media. Let’s encourage each other to make this holiday season unforgettable without spending too much money.