Dazzling Christmas Trees Around the Country
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Frosty temps, the chance of snow, peppermint mochas, 24/7 holiday music, Hallmark movie marathons, shopping deals, parties, sugar cookies, hot cocoa…While all these things signal the start of the holiday season, for me, the season officially kicks off for me (and many major cities around the country) with the lighting of the official tree.
After traveling for 15 years, I have compiled a guide to some of the most dazzling trees I’ve seen around the country! I’ve moved a lot and traveled a lot, so I have explored many different region’s holiday traditions. From the famous Rockefeller tree in New York City, to the gorgeous Capitol Hill tree in D.C., to a few hidden gems, there are beauties to explore all over. You may just live within driving distance to one of these incredible trees featured in my guide.
The history of the Christmas tree
According to The History Channel, the beginnings of the Christmas tree dates back to ancient Egypt and Rome. The tradition continued on in Germany with candlelight evergreen trees in the 16th century. In the 1800’s, the tradition arrived in the US, with the first recorded tree displayed in the 1830’s by German Pennsylvania settlers. By the 20th century most American homes had a tree as their living room centerpiece each holiday season. Today, some people like me have more than one! I actually loved both artificial and real trees.
The most famous tree in the country is most definitely the tree at Rockefeller Center in NYC. After years of wanting to visit NYC for the holidays, I finally checked seeing this iconic tree off my holiday bucket list. The timeless tradition of lighting up a magnificent real tree in the biggest and most influential city has been going strong since 1931.
As beautiful as this tree remains, many cities and small towns across the US kick off the holiday season with a lighting of their annual tree in the city’s downtown or town square. No matter where you live or travel, you can count on a festive holiday display from coast-to-coast.
Enjoy my photos of the various trees I’ve photographed all around the country. Happy Holidays!
Rockefeller Center: New York City
The Rockefeller Center tree lighting tradition began during the Depression Era. The lighting ceremony started in 1933 and continues to become a more dazzling star-studded event each year. The tree arrives in the city in early November and is lit the Wednesday following Thanksgiving. Visitors come from around the world (125+ million on average) to marvel at the grandest tree of them all. A different tree (usually a Norway spruce) is selected each year.
This article details the process of selecting the tree. New for 2019 was a dazzling 900 lb Swarovski crystal topper (I have to say it looks fabulous). It was a dream of mine to see this tree in person! It finally happened while I enjoyed convenient access living in nearby Philly.
What to do nearby: Ice skate at the world famous Rockefeller Center rink. Also check out my guide to the top things to do in NYC for Christmas. There is really so much to do this time of year and the decorations everywhere are so gorgeous. I highly recommend skating at the Wollman rink, seeing a show, and taking your picture by the giant red ornaments.
Capitol Hill: Washington D.C.
Hands down, one of the most amazing trees I have seen in person is the beauty next to the U.S. Capitol building in D.C. You wouldn’t think of D.C. as much of a holiday destination, although the displays here are spectacular enough to warrant a visit, especially if you live within a reasonable roadtrip drive. I had the opportunity to visit the city numerous times while living close by in Pittsburgh (an easy 4 hour weekend trip).
This tree lighting tradition started a bit later than most others – in 1964 according to this article. The first tree was a 24 foot Douglas Fir. For 2024, an 80 foot Sitka Spruce from the Tongass National Forest in Alaska decorates the lawn. In my opinion, this beauty outshines The National Tree, so definitely put both on your D.C. must-see list!
What to do nearby: Take a self guided tour of the amazing Library of Congress. Also, the US Botanical Gardens holiday display, featuring hundreds of poinsettias, is really beautiful (and free!). You will get to see these amazing plant based replicas of famous monuments. Also, you will want to tour the various museums (The National Gallery of Art is decorated beautifully this time of year). Check out my D.C. Christmas guide for more details.
The National Tree: Washington D.C.
I have always wanted to see The National Tree in person, especially after seeing the great Hallmark classic with the same name (It’s one of my favorite – Andrew McCarthy is great in this one!).
The lighting tradition started way back on Christmas Eve in 1923 when President Coolidge lit red, green, and white lights on a 48 foot tall Vermont Balsam Fir.
2023 marked the 100th anniversary of this amazing event! While the tree itself isn’t quite as dazzling as many others on this list, the cool aspect is the trees from each state surrounding the main one. Each tree is decorated by students with ornaments that reflect the unique heritage of each state.
What to do nearby: Winter is a surprsingly great time of the year to check out all the wonderful historical attractions and museums. It’s considerably less crowded, plus cheaper to stay at the hotels. Plus, you also get to enjoy some fantastic light displays and the gorgeous trees. Check out my winter D.C. travel guide for full details.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge: Orlando, Florida
Disney theme parks look absolutely gorgeous decked out for the holidays, and so do the resorts. While the resorts are quite pricey to stay at during this busy period (sometimes upwards of 500 bucks), you can still plan for a festive dinner or simply take a browse around to enjoy the holiday cheer.
Note – free shuttle service is available from Disney Springs. One of my favorites is the Animal Kingdom Lodge, a unique African safari themed resort. Festive authentic African themed ornaments adorn the massive tree. Gorgeous garland and wreaths all throughout the lobby add a magical touch for the holidays.
I lived in Tampa for many years and took so many daytrips to Orlando including around Christmastime. This is by far the most gorgeous tree you will find in this city. I recommend splurging on a room if you have the spare cash.
What to do nearby: Dine at Sanaa, an amazing Indian/African themed restaurant. The Indian Bread service app which includes Naan bread and 9 fabulous dipping sauces is probably the best appetizer I’ve ever tasted.
