Home » America Travel News » Now Forget Raleigh, Honolulu, Springfield, Topeka and Let’s Explore Albany, Columbia, Austin, Cheyenne, Santa Fe This Thanksgiving and Christmas Holiday This Year, These US Cities Bring More America to You
Published on
November 6, 2025
By: Tuhin Sarkar
This Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday season, step away from the usual tourist spots and discover the charm of five incredible U.S. cities: Albany, Columbia, Austin, Cheyenne, and Santa Fe. While cities like Raleigh, Honolulu, Springfield, and Topeka often dominate the travel scene, these hidden gems bring a fresh, authentic American experience that is perfect for anyone looking to make this festive season unforgettable.
Whether you are craving the rich history and cozy charm of Albany, New York, or the southern warmth and hospitality of Columbia, South Carolina, this guide will take you on a journey through these unique destinations. Austin, Texas, offers a blend of big-city excitement and holiday spirit, while Cheyenne, Wyoming, invites you to experience the magic of the Old West with a festive twist. Lastly, Santa Fe, New Mexico, delivers a unique cultural experience with its stunning holiday lights and rich Native American traditions.
Each of these cities is brimming with seasonal activities, local celebrations, and festive events that bring more of America to you. So, if you’re looking for a holiday getaway that offers something different this year, explore what these cities have to offer this Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday season. Read on to find out why they should be at the top of your travel list for a truly memorable holiday experience!
Discover the Hidden Gems of America: Top U.S. Cities You Should Visit in 2025 – The Ultimate Guide to Tourism Trends!
Are you planning a trip to the USA? Looking to discover unique cities, new airlines, luxury hotels, and the latest tourism stats for 2025? Whether you’re an avid traveller or just starting to explore the vast beauty of the USA, this guide will help you navigate the best cities to visit in America, uncovering everything from tourism trends to hotel openings and exciting new routes in the US travel industry.
In this article, we’ll explore Albany, New York, Columbia, South Carolina, Austin, Texas, Cheyenne, Wyoming, Santa Fe, New Mexico, Raleigh, North Carolina, Springfield, Massachusetts, and Topeka, Kansas—highlighting their unique tourism appeal, new airlines, luxury hotels, and why these cities should be on your travel radar in 2025!
The holiday season is just around the corner, and if you’re dreaming of a getaway that offers more than just beautiful sights, then this year’s Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays are the perfect time to explore the hidden gems of America. Forget Raleigh, Honolulu, Springfield, and Topeka—this year, why not focus on five incredible U.S. cities that bring the best of America to you?
From the snow-covered streets of Albany, New York, to the festive charm of Santa Fe, New Mexico, these cities offer a unique, welcoming experience full of holiday cheer. If you’re wondering where to go this year, here’s why Albany, Columbia, Austin, Cheyenne, and Santa Fe should top your list.
Albany, New York: Experience a Traditional American Winter Wonderland
If you want to experience the true spirit of Christmas, Albany, New York, is the place to be. With its stunning winter landscapes, rich history, and vibrant festive traditions, Albany offers the perfect American holiday experience.
This city comes alive with holiday spirit from Thanksgiving right through to Christmas. Empire State Plaza lights up with the magnificent New York State Holiday Tree as a centrepiece, and you can enjoy the festive cheer through performances, holiday markets, and family-friendly events. One popular event is the annual Turkey Trot, where locals and tourists come together to work up an appetite before the big feast. These traditional events make Albany a dream destination for anyone seeking a classic American Christmas.
Key Highlights of Albany During the Holidays:
Holiday light displays at Empire State Plaza.Historic walking tours to discover Albany’s beautiful colonial architecture.Traditional American feasts and special events, including the Turkey Trot.
For those who want a mix of historic charm and festive fun, Albany is perfect. The quiet, peaceful atmosphere combined with the buzz of holiday celebrations creates a magical blend. If you’re looking for a cosy, traditional holiday experience in the heart of New York, Albany should be your top pick.
Columbia, South Carolina: A Southern Christmas Full of Charm and Warmth
If you prefer a warmer holiday season, Columbia, South Carolina, brings you the best of Southern hospitality during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Known for its gentle winters and charming ambiance, Columbia is an ideal destination for those looking to escape the snow without missing out on festive fun.
The city hosts a variety of Christmas parades, special house tours, and even holiday light shows. The Robert Mills House and Hampton‑Preston Mansion offer fascinating historical tours, decorated beautifully for the season. You can also enjoy the Singing Christmas Tree, where local choirs perform Christmas carols, filling the air with joyous sounds.
Key Highlights of Columbia During the Holidays:
Holiday light displays and a fantastic Christmas parade.House tours at historic sites like Robert Mills House.Southern-style Christmas meals, including traditional dishes like fried turkey and sweet potatoes.
Columbia offers a laid-back holiday experience that is infused with the warmth of Southern charm. Whether you’re strolling through historical sites or enjoying the festive parades, Columbia ensures that you’ll experience Christmas with a unique Southern flair.
Austin, Texas: A Bold City Full of Festive Energy and Holiday Fun
There’s no city quite like Austin, Texas, when it comes to mixing holiday cheer with the energy of a bustling metropolis. Famous for its lively music scene, art, and food, Austin never fails to impress, especially during the holiday season.
Austin transforms into a holiday wonderland with its Trail of Lights at Zilker Park, an event that is a must-see during Christmas. The park lights up with over 2 million lights, creating a spectacular display that will leave you in awe. Thanksgiving and Christmas in Austin are filled with festive markets, Nutcracker performances, and food trucks serving up delicious treats.
Key Highlights of Austin During the Holidays:
The Trail of Lights in Zilker Park, one of the biggest light displays in the U.S.Live music performances celebrating the festive season.Holiday shopping at the unique local markets.
Austin provides the perfect holiday destination if you want a big-city vibe mixed with holiday fun. The city’s art and music scene make it an exciting place to be during the holidays, and there’s always something to do—whether it’s attending a festive performance or simply enjoying the delicious food.
Cheyenne, Wyoming: A Wild West Holiday Experience Like No Other
For something a little different, Cheyenne, Wyoming, offers a unique, quiet, and distinctly American holiday experience. Known for its historic Old West charm, Cheyenne gives you the chance to experience the holidays in a laid-back, cosy atmosphere that’s perfect for those looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful Christmas.
The city celebrates Christmas in its own distinctive style with events like holiday light tours, tree-lighting ceremonies, and festive buffets in charming local hotels. Cheyenne Frontier Days, the city’s famous Western festival, continues to inspire many holiday events that blend cowboy culture with festive traditions.
Key Highlights of Cheyenne During the Holidays:
Old West-style holiday celebrations, including tree-lighting ceremonies.Buffet meals at historic hotels such as Little America.Holiday tours through the heart of Cheyenne’s historic downtown.
Cheyenne is perfect for those who want a peaceful, traditional holiday getaway. The city’s Western roots add a special twist to the holiday season, creating a charming destination for families, history lovers, and anyone looking for a unique holiday experience.
Santa Fe, New Mexico: A Cultural Holiday Getaway That Will Leave You Spellbound
For a blend of culture, tradition, and holiday magic, Santa Fe, New Mexico, should be at the top of your travel list this Christmas. Known for its rich Native American heritage, vibrant arts scene, and stunning adobe architecture, Santa Fe shines brightly during the holidays.
Santa Fe hosts incredible farolito walks, where you can see candle-lit lanterns lining the streets, creating a magical atmosphere. The Santa Fe Plaza becomes the centre of Christmas celebrations with performances, craft markets, and the annual tree lighting ceremony. Local galleries and boutique shops offer unique holiday gifts, perfect for those looking to take home a piece of Santa Fe’s artistry.
Key Highlights of Santa Fe During the Holidays:
Farolito walks lighting up the streets with beautiful lanterns.Holiday markets with handmade arts and crafts.Cultural performances, including local Christmas plays and singing events.
Santa Fe offers a holiday experience unlike any other, combining history, art, and culture with the magic of the season. If you’re looking for a destination that provides both relaxation and festive spirit, Santa Fe delivers in abundance.
Why These U.S. Cities Are Perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas Holidays
If you’re wondering why you should choose these five cities over the usual holiday hotspots, the answer is simple: authenticity and holiday charm. Each of these cities offers something unique, from the historic architecture of Albany to the Southern hospitality of Columbia and the artistic beauty of Santa Fe. Here’s why they should be your go-to destinations for Thanksgiving and Christmas this year:
Authentic experiences: These cities offer real American holiday traditions, from historic celebrations to vibrant local festivities.Rich cultural diversity: Experience different regional styles of celebrating the holidays, from the Western cowboy charm in Cheyenne to the Native American culture in Santa Fe.Escape the crowds: These cities offer a more peaceful and intimate holiday experience compared to the big, crowded tourist destinations.
For families, solo travellers, or couples seeking a holiday filled with warmth, tradition, and festive cheer, these five U.S. cities bring the magic of America to life.
A Holiday Adventure You Won’t Forget
Whether you’re looking for snow-covered streets, traditional American holiday meals, vibrant cultural experiences, or peaceful, charming getaways, Albany, Columbia, Austin, Cheyenne, and Santa Fe are the perfect places to spend your Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. These cities will offer you more than just great sights—they’ll give you a taste of the true American holiday spirit.
So, pack your bags, get your holiday spirit ready, and explore the best of America’s hidden treasures this festive season. Your perfect holiday adventure awaits!
Why Albany, New York, Should Be On Your Radar This Year
Nestled in the heart of New York State, Albany is quietly emerging as a must-visit destination in 2025. Known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to the stunning Adirondacks, Albany is the perfect mix of culture and nature. Tourism stats show that the Albany region (including the Capital-Saratoga area) has seen significant growth, with thousands of visitors flocking each year to explore its museums, parks, and historic landmarks. In 2022, the tourism sector supported over 33,000 jobs, generating a massive $523 million in revenue for Albany County alone.
With new non-stop flights being added in 2025 from Albany International Airport (ALB) to Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, and Charleston, South Carolina, getting to Albany has never been easier. However, when it comes to luxury hotels, Albany is still catching up. There’s a noticeable gap in upscale hotel offerings, leaving room for new and exciting luxury developments in the future.
Key Takeaways: Albany, New York, is a city on the rise, with growing tourism numbers and new flight routes, making it a must-visit spot for 2025.
Columbia, South Carolina: Your Next Southern Adventure
The capital of South Carolina, Columbia, is a hidden gem for travelers in 2025. While it might not yet have the same fame as cities like Charleston, Columbia’s charm lies in its affordable prices, rich Southern heritage, and proximity to natural beauty like the Congaree National Park. In 2024, Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) saw over 1.36 million passengers, with more to come in 2025, as new routes like Spirit Airlines’ non-stop flights to Newark and Orlando help boost tourism.
Columbia also boasts an exciting new hotel development close to the airport. This new hotel, planned for opening in 2025, will help meet the growing demand for quality accommodations, adding more luxury options to the area. While Columbia may not yet be known for its luxury hotels, it’s poised to become a hotspot in the next few years, especially with a booming hospitality scene catering to both business and leisure travelers.
Key Takeaways: With new airline routes and developing luxury accommodations, Columbia, South Carolina, is becoming a prime destination for 2025.
Austin, Texas: The Ultimate Travel Hotspot for 2025
Austin, Texas, is undeniably one of the most exciting cities in the USA right now. Known for its thriving music scene, bustling tech industry, and delicious food, Austin is a magnet for both tourists and digital nomads. In 2025, Austin continues to rank high as one of the top U.S. cities for tourism, boasting an incredible blend of culture, nature, and hospitality. As of 2025, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) has been adding new routes to destinations like Palm Springs and Mexico City, which makes getting to Austin even easier.
Austin has also seen a surge in new hotels, including high-end properties such as the Commodore Perry Estate, which earned recognition from Michelin’s Texas Hotel Guide. Additionally, upcoming openings like Tru by Hilton and Element Hotel North Austin will continue to elevate the city’s luxury offerings, making Austin an even more appealing destination for upscale travelers in 2025.
Key Takeaways: Austin, Texas, remains a top travel destination, with a strong tourism industry, fresh hotel openings, and new flight routes making it the perfect spot for a luxurious and exciting getaway.
Cheyenne, Wyoming: The Wild West Beckons
While Cheyenne, Wyoming, may not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a U.S. getaway, this underrated city is gaining traction as an off-the-beaten-path destination for 2025. Known for its historic sites, Old West attractions, and annual Cheyenne Frontier Days, the city is making its mark on the tourism map.
However, the growth of Cheyenne as a luxury destination is still in its infancy. The city’s tourism infrastructure, including hotels, is largely geared towards mid-range options, with some newer properties like Home2 Suites by Hilton making waves in 2025. On the airline front, Cheyenne still lags behind larger cities in terms of new routes and direct flights, which means you’ll likely need to make connections through nearby hubs like Denver.
Key Takeaways: While Cheyenne is still in the early stages of its tourism boom, its historic charm and emerging hotel scene make it a destination to watch for 2025.
Santa Fe, New Mexico: An Artistic Escape Like No Other
Santa Fe, New Mexico, continues to be one of the most captivating cities in the U.S. for cultural tourism. With its distinctive adobe architecture, vibrant arts scene, and rich Native American history, Santa Fe attracts visitors from all over the world. In 2025, Santa Fe is poised to grow even more in popularity, ranking as the #1 U.S. city in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards.
Santa Fe is also seeing growth in its airport traffic, with Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF) expected to surpass 400,000 travelers in 2025. While Santa Fe has a few luxury hotels, like the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado, new luxury developments are limited, leaving room for future expansion. The city is known for its upscale bed-and-breakfasts and boutique hotels, which offer a more intimate, high-end experience.
Key Takeaways: Santa Fe’s artistic and cultural appeal, combined with its growing airport traffic, makes it a top destination for 2025, especially for those seeking a unique and upscale travel experience.
Raleigh, North Carolina: The Emerging East Coast Powerhouse
Raleigh, North Carolina, is a city on the rise in 2025. Known for its tech sector, outdoor activities, and rich history, Raleigh is quickly becoming a prime destination for both business and leisure travelers. With Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) seeing record-breaking traffic, the city’s tourism industry is booming.
New flight routes from RDU are continuing to expand global connectivity, including direct flights to international destinations. While Raleigh is still working on its luxury hotel offerings, the growing demand for upscale accommodations is clear, with several new properties planned for 2025, including a high-end hotel near the airport.
Key Takeaways: Raleigh’s growing tech scene, new airline routes, and developing luxury hotel offerings make it one of the most exciting cities to visit in 2025.
Springfield, Massachusetts: The Gateway to New England
Nestled in Western Massachusetts, Springfield is a city that often gets overlooked but is steadily growing in popularity for tourists in 2025. Known for its role in American history, Springfield is home to the Basketball Hall of Fame and several historic landmarks. The city has seen a rise in hotel demand, with an increase in room nights sold in 2025.
However, Springfield still faces a challenge when it comes to attracting luxury hotel brands. The area has several mid-range hotels, but the luxury market is largely untapped. Additionally, Springfield’s airport doesn’t yet offer the extensive direct flight routes that larger cities provide.
Key Takeaways: Springfield offers a unique New England experience but is still catching up in terms of luxury accommodations and direct flight options.
Topeka, Kansas: Discover the Heart of America
Topeka, Kansas, may not be on your travel radar yet, but the city’s tourism scene is beginning to bloom. With a focus on historical sites and Midwestern charm, Topeka is an excellent spot for a quiet getaway. The city has several new hotel developments, including properties like Hyatt Place Topeka, which cater to both business and leisure travelers.
However, Topeka faces significant challenges in terms of airline connectivity. Currently, the city’s airport offers limited flight options, which makes it difficult for tourists to access the city directly. Despite this, Topeka’s growing tourism infrastructure makes it a city to watch in 2025.
Key Takeaways: Topeka offers charm and affordability, but lacks in direct flight connections, making it a less ideal option for travelers looking for easy access.
Conclusion: Top U.S. Cities to Visit in 2025
From the historical richness of Albany, New York, to the vibrant music scene in Austin, Texas, the U.S. has a wealth of exciting destinations for 2025. Whether you’re seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or luxury escapes, these cities offer something for every traveler. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the diverse and dynamic world of America’s tourism industry—2025 is going to be a year full of unforgettable experiences!
