Dazzling Christmas Trees Around the Country
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
Downtown Chandler: Chandler, Arizona
One of the most unique Christmas trees in the country is the tumbleweed tree in Chandler. This eclectic holiday tradition takes place in a beautiful suburb just outside of Phoenix. One thousand tumbleweeds are collected outside the city, spray painted, and dusted with glitter. The ending result is quite unusual and strikingly beautiful. Let’s just say that I have never seen a tree like this!
The tumbleweed tree tradition, which began in 1957, continues to be one of the metro area’s most interesting holiday events. A festive Parade of Lights, visits with Santa, and musical performances add to the holiday excitement.
What to do nearby: Shop and dine in downtown Chandler (Peixoto is one of my favorite local coffeehouses in the metro). The Phoenix area is home to much more than just shopping and winter is a great time to plan a hike. You can check out my hiking guide which will cover my best picks for seeing both cacti and gorgeous mountain views.
Omni Grove Park Inn: Asheville, North Carolina
This gorgeous Omni property in the Blue Ridge mountains is one of the most gorgeous resorts I’ve ever seen. The 4 star property is decorated with plenty of festive cheer around the holiday season.
While living in Asheville, one of my holiday traditions was enjoying breakfast in the beautiful Blue Ridge dining room, followed by a coffee break in front of the massive lobby fireplace. Then I would stroll around the property enjoying the gorgeous decorations and finally cap off the day with a viewing of the marvelous creations in their annual gingerbread competition.
This display is open to the public on select dates throughout December. You can learn more on the Omni website.
Main St: Hendersonville, North Carolina
This small Western North Carolina community is home to a charming Main St. lined with independent businesses. I took many daytrips here while living in Asheville. I love strolling around downtown popping in and out of the local antique shops. I always found the cutest black bear and mountain themed holiday decorations. I still display this charming train set I found in a local shop.
Also, in keeping with the bear theme, there is this great local coffeehouse called Black Bear which decorates beautifully. In addition to a 30 foot tree by the courthouse, there are thousands of colorful lights and wreaths hanging from the light posts.
What to do nearby: Definitely check out the annual Christmas parade – it’s a blast. The city offers an entire lineup of festive fun as part of their “Hometown for the Holidays” event.
As a resident of Asheville for several years, I explored the best holiday traditions the region has to offer. My guide to the top holiday events in Western North Carolina covers a few of the top light shows, special events, and more.
Omni William Penn: Pittsburgh
Most Omni properties look beautiful over the holiday season and the William Penn in downtown Pittsburgh is no exception. This is a great place to stay as you will be within walking distance to the theater district, the ice rink, and many local restaurants.
Even if you are not staying at the hotel, you can enjoy a cup of coffee while you gaze at the tree. Take a look at how gorgeous this lobby tree looks with the chandeliers and garland – it’s so elegant. Also, there is a holiday cocktail pop up called Blitzen’s.
What to do nearby: Enjoy the Sunday brunch buffet at The Terrace Room. It’s not the best buffet around I’ll admit, but I enjoy the ambiance of this resort this time of year.
Omni Bedford Springs: Allegheny Mountains region
I came across this property randomly once on a road trip from Pittsburgh to D.C. This one is located in Bedford Springs in the beautiful Allegheny mountains of Pennsylvania. It has been rated one of the most beautifully decorated resorts. I was so impressed with the decor that I might consider staying here one holiday season. We enjoyed brunch in the gorgeous Crystal Room – the food was great and the ambiance so elegant and romantic.
