It’s hard to throw a stone in Maine without hitting a charming small town, making it all the more worthy of a trip during the holiday season. Take Boothbay Harbor, for example, with its six weeks of festivities for visitors of all ages. The Gardens Aglow at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens transforms the grounds into a winter wonderland with over 750,000 lights that wind throughout magical woodlands. Also not to be missed is the lighted boat parade (a local holiday tradition) followed by crackling fireworks over the harbor.
Where to Stay: OneSixtyFive
Newport, Rhode Island
Photo: Getty Images
This coastal town has long been admired for its Gilded Age mansions, scenic cliff walk, and maritime culture (it’s known as the sailing capital of the world, after all). And come Christmas, the entire town lights up as holiday cheer spreads across its cobblestone streets. There are countless activities to choose from, including holiday bubbly cruises, themed afternoon teas, nutcracker performances, an illuminated boat parade, and much more.
Where to Stay: Castle Hill Inn
Seneca Falls, New York
If a screening of the 1946 classic It’s a Wonderful Life is required viewing for you each holiday season, you might want to make your way to the town that likely inspired the film: New York’s Seneca Falls. The town is situated in the picturesque Finger Lakes region and Christmas festivities here are centered around the film, from special presentations and parades to visits from original cast members.
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