Celebrate the Holidays at Independent Collection Hotels & Resorts
From fireworks shows in the mountains to international art fairs on the beach, winter festivities in America are as diverse as the people who call it home. Some states celebrate the season with street parades and dazzling holiday markets. Others venture outdoors and let nature put on the show.
Despite their differences, American destinations share one thing in common — a unique opportunity to discover something new, step outside of your comfort zone, and make new memories in a place truly unlike anywhere else in the world.
Whatever experiences you’re after this holiday season, Independent Collection Hotels & Resorts has the perfect place for you to make holiday magic.
The Quintessential Holiday
Towering trees, grand displays, festive feasts, and Old St. Nick. These are the hallmarks of a classic American holiday.
If your heart longs for those nostalgic traditions, consider a stay in the epicenter of it all – New York City. From the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on 34th Street, to Rockefeller Center’s famous tree, to the dazzling window displays of Fifth Avenue, the Big Apple captures the holiday spirit unlike anywhere else.
Where to stay: Hotel 48LEX for sophisticated luxury in Midtown East; NU Hotel Brooklyn for an artsy, boutique stay in the borough; and Aliz Hotel Times Square for easy access to all of New York City.
If you like your holidays paired with historic charm, Annapolis, Maryland is for you. This idyllic town on the Chesapeake Bay looks straight out of a colonial postcard, especially during the holidays when Annapolis’ cobblestone streets are decked with lights and holiday cheer.
Where to stay: Annapolis Waterfront Hotel for waterfront luxury in the heart of the city.
Philadelphia is another historic gem that lights up during the holidays – literally! Bundle up and explore Philly’s seriously impressive displays at LOVE Park, then shop the authentic, German-style Christmas market nearby in City Hall. Skate under twinkling lights along the Delaware River, or check out the hand-made window displays in Old City District.
Where to stay: The Rittenhouse, a Forbes Four-Star hotel in Philadelphia’s buzzing city center.
Let It Snow
Dreaming of a white Christmas? It doesn’t get much snowier than Minnesota! In Minneapolis, do as the locals do and embrace the perennial cold with fun winter activities like ice fishing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice skating across the state’s famous lakes.
Where to stay: Rand Tower Hotel, a new Art Deco hotel inspired by an adventure-loving Minnesota legend.
Washington state boasts its own winter wonderland. Start in Seattle for unique holiday traditions like the Christmas Ships, when festive cruise ships sail to different beaches and waterfront communities to perform Christmas carols. Then venture to Crystal Mountain, the biggest ski resort in Washington, for skiing, snowboarding, and epic fireworks on New Years Eve. If you’re really feeling adventurous, tack on a day trip to Leavenworth’s Alpine-style village. (Google it now, thank us later.)
Where to stay: Pan Pacific Seattle, a Forbes Four-Star, Four-Diamond hotel walking distance to the city’s top attractions.
Some Like It Hot…
If your ideal holiday includes sun, sand, and a strict no-pants policy, head on down to Florida’s tropical paradise. In Miami Beach, a jam-packed calendar of cultural events and beachside soirees draws thousands of travelers from all over the world. For a more laid back, island-style holiday, continue south to the Florida Keys for world-class snorkeling, sports fishing, kayaking and more.
Where to stay: Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club, Blue Moon Hotel and Winter Haven Hotel in Miami Beach; THesis Hotel in Miami’s historic Coral Gables neighborhood; Islander Resort & Bayside Villas by Islander Resort in the heart of Islamorada; and Parrot Key Hotel & Villas, award-winning luxury in Key West.
…Not That Hot!
Or how about an oceanfront oasis with the perfect amount of chill in the air? Enter: California. Each city in the Golden State celebrates the holidays with its own unique flair. Party like a rock star on New Year’s Eve in Santa Monica, join Monterey’s small town community for food and wine festivals, or hike through mystical forests outside Santa Barbara. If you can’t decide, a scenic drive down Pacific Coast Highway is always a good idea.
Where to stay: The Ambrose Hotel in Santa Monica; Hotel Nia in San Francisco’s Menlo Park; Hotel Milo in Santa Barbara; and The Sanctuary Beach Resort in Monterey Bay.
New Year, New Traditions
For a totally unique holiday experience, consider a journey to the pink-hued deserts of West Texas towards El Paso. The El Paso community is incredibly diverse, and its holiday celebrations are rooted in a range of cultures. Take part in new-to-you traditions like Las Noches de las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden, then hit the open road for your greatest winter adventure yet.
Where to stay: The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park, a favorite of A-listers during Hollywood’s Golden Age.
Wherever you go, consider Independent Collection Hotels & Resorts your home away from home this holiday season. Explore our award-winning properties across America, and gift the magic of travel with gift cards to Independent Collection.