Top Ten Travel List

One of the most spectacular zoo light displays in the country, Lincoln Park Zoo's annual free event features over 2 million lights! In addition, you will also be treated to caroling performances, synchronized music and light shows, ice carvings, ice skating, and special holiday events! What's more - the fantastic location provides you with great views of Chicago.

Did you know that the actual house used for filming the holiday classic "A Christmas Story" now runs as a tour and museum? Fans of this 80's holiday film will enjoy the opportunity to walk around the house, which has been restored to resemble the exact setting in the film.

An informative tour guide gives plenty of interesting tidbits about the cast and filming process. The on site gift shop is a fan's dream; here you will find more "A Christmas Story" memorabilia than you could ever imagine!

Visiting Chicago during the holiday season is sure to put anyone into the holiday spirit. The range of unique activities and events available are sure to quickly fill up your itinerary. One unique, festive place to shop for the holidays is Christkindlmarket, a German inspired shopping village. Be sure to pick up one (or several) of the beautiful, one-of-a-kind glass blown ornaments.

Picture what it would be like to enter a winter snow globe...this is exactly what you get at Jackson, New Hampshire's Nestlenook Farms. Christmas is a magical time to visit the resort, which is overloaded with festive activities such as sleigh rides, snowshoeing, and a breathtakingly beautiful Victorian ice skating rink. Being surrounded by the snowy White Mountains makes you feel like you stepped right into a snow globe.

A visit to the Smoky Mountains during the holiday season would not be complete without visiting "The South's Largest Christmas Store." This year-round Christmas themed shop offers any type of decoration you could imagine. Just walking around is a treat in itself with over 60 uniquely decorated Christmas trees, holiday village displays, and even occasional Singing Santa performances. Those who want to get even more festive can stay at The Incredible Christmas Place Inn, a year round Bavarian themed hotel, located just across the street.

Each year thousands of elk migrate to Jackson Hole for the winter months. Tourists can take a festive winter sleigh ride, while also getting an opportunity to learn more about the refuge and get up close to wildlife. The beautiful snowy mountains are just another reason to book your winter trip to Jackson.

For some of the best views in the Lake Tahoe area, look no further than Squaw Valley's scenic aerial tram ride. Open year-round, this ride is scenic no matter which season you choose to visit. A winter visit is ideal as you get to experience the beauty of the snow covered mountains and pine trees. Plus, after taking the 2000 foot ride up to the mountaintop, you will be able to enjoy mountaintop ice skating while soaking in the magnificent scenery all around.

This annual light display at La Salette Shrine is one of the best events in Southeast Massachusetts. Featuring hundreds and thousands of LED lights, this wonderful holiday festival is sure to delight everyone. A festive trolley ride takes passengers around to view the dazzling displays. A new synchronized light show makes the experience even more entertaining. The whole family is sure to enjoy this festive, free event.

Macy's on State Street (formerly Marshall Field's) is home to Chicago's annual holiday window displays. No winter visit to the Windy City would be complete without paying a visit, both to see the iconic windows and to do a little bit of holiday shopping (7 floors worth!). Be sure to plan a meal at Walnut Room, where you will be treated to a special holiday menu in the company of an extravagant 45 foot centerpiece Christmas tree.

A winter trip to Boston would not be complete without taking a stroll around Boston Common and enjoying the Christmas tree. While you are there make sure to stop for an ice skating session. Skating at night with the lit up trees is a festive holiday experience for skaters of all abilities. Late November-early December marks the tree lighting ceremony, which often features popular music and entertainment acts.