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Seven Christmas Films That Will Inspire Your Next Holiday!
The festive season is in full swing, and for lovers of Christmas movies this really is the most wonderful time of year!
Everyone has their own favourite yuletide flick, but we've put together a list of 7 Christmas film locations that will give you some holiday inspiration for your travel bucket list.
Falling for Christmas (Park City, Utah)
This cute/cheesy (depending on your take) romcom launched on Netflix in November 2022. It has no shortage of festive feels as Lindsay Lohan's lead character undergoes a character transformation after a bout of amnesia. Featuring jaw dropping luxury ski resorts and ridiculously cosy mountain lodges, this Christmas film will have you googling Winter holidays before it reaches its happy ending!
If you fancy hitting the same slopes as Lindsay Lohan or enjoying some Christmas cheer in the mountain air, then you'll need to head to Park City Utah, where this cheery film was shot. Boasting 17 slopes and 300 trails, this super sized ski resort is the largest in the USA. The nearest airport to Park City is, Salt Lake City, which has regular direct flights from London. So, if you are looking for love or just some great ski/snowboard action then contact one of our ski specialists in Tunbridge Wells.
Home Alone (Winnetka, Illinois)
It's not the best advert for a festive family holiday, but this slapstick Christmas classic is a firm favourite with the younger travellers in our house! Fellow fans of Home Alone will want to make a pilgrimage to the sleepy suburb of Winnetka, Illinois, specifically to 671 Lincoln Avenue. Here they will find the on screen home of the McAllister family.
Each year this sizable abode attracts thousands of sightseers that come to take selfies with the iconic mansion in the background. If you want to make a visit to Winnetka, you can include this as part of a Christmas city break to Chicago, or wait until summer when you will be able to include this as part of a Route 66 Road Trip. Just don't forget the kids please!
It's a Wonderful Life (Seneca Falls, New York)
This heart warming Christmas classic has been passing down its upbeat message through the generations since it was first released in 1946. If you want to go looking for your own Guardian Angel, you will have a hard time finding the fictional town of Bedford Falls though - Frank Capra's snow dusted film was shot entirely on a Hollywood studio set. Don't despair though, as its widely believed that this magical movie was inspired by the very much real, upstate New York town of Seneca Falls.
Sharp eyed viewers will recall that the film references the nearby locations of Buffalo and Rochester (Seneca is midway between these), but also shares some strikingly similarities in terms of its architecture - including the steel girder bridge which George contemplated his life from. The town even has its own museum dedicated to the film, featuring memorabilia and photos from Its a Wonderful Life, documenting Seneca's connection to the film. Each December the museum holds a celebration of the film, that is attended by members of the cast.
If you would like to visit Seneca then get in touch with one of our team who will be able to include this as part of a tailor-made American Road Trip - the town can be combined with Niagara Falls, Syracuse, The Finger Lakes region or The Catskill Mountains. Mkaing this a truly 'wonderful' holiday!
Die Hard (Los Angeles, California)
As divisive as a winter world cup, there's been more blogs debating the virtues of Die Hard as a Christmas movie, than there have ben sequels to this 80's action blockbuster! I'm not here to get into an argument as to whether Die Hard is a Christmas Film or not (there's absolutely no doubt about it!), rather than help you pinpoint the location of the Nakatomi Plaza for yourself. Still standing strong, this 34 storey tower is better known as Fox Plaza, located on Hollywood Boulevard in the centre of Los Angeles. Much of the film was shot in and around this skyscraper (it was actually built by Fox for use as a film set), so ahem 'die hard' fans of this movie may recognise some of the nearby locations. LA isn't quite warm enough for winter sunshine, so we would recommend that you save your visit for a summery California Road Trip , Yippee-Kay-Yay!
Miracle on 34th Street (New York City, New York)
The title is a bit of a giveaway with this one, but in case you were not sure, the 34th street featured in this Christmas classic is on Manhattan, New York - home of Macy's! Many of the original films scenes were shot on location at this world famous department store, and the opening scenes used live footage from the 1946 Thanksgiving parade. The parade has been a New York tradition since 1934 and features staff and their families from Macy's. November and December are the perfect time of year to visit New York for a pre-Christmas shopping break, with festive window displays and twinkly lights aplenty. Shoppers will relish the chance to grab a Black Friday bargain, whilst sightseeing takes on a new perspective as the cities shiny ice rinks are unveiled for the winter. If you would like some help planning a New York City break, then get in touch with one of our team who will be happy to help you.
White Christmas (Vermont)
Most of our travellers heading to Vermont go in search of autumnal colour but if you're dreaming of a White Christmas then Vermont is the place to be! The fictional town of 'Pine Tree' and the quaint 'Pine Tree Inn' that star in this festive flick were filmed on a theatrical set in sunny Hollywood, but there's no shortage of cosy B&B's and rustic inn's in this part of New England. Head to the towns of Woodstock, Burlington, Stowe or Chester for a smorgasbord of winter activities including skiing, snowboarding, skating and carriage rides through snowy streets! If winter is not your thing then these mountain towns are just as beautiful in the summer months.
Love Actually (Millawuke, Wisconsin)
This hit British offering follows the happy moments and heartbreaks which unfold at Christmas time. One strand of the many plots which run through this 2003 Rom com follows Colin, an unlucky in love character, to Wisconsin, USA where he meets the girl(s) of his dreams. We can't guarantee you will find love (or lust) like Colin did, but if you would like to meet the locals and enjoy some stunning scenery, then let us put together a tailor-made self drive holiday of the Great Lakes for you. You'll find lush forests, collosal sand dunes and picturesque towns on a tour of Lake Michigan.
Autumn is a deservedly popular time to visit the USA and Canada, as mother nature puts on her annual show of changing colours. With prices dipping from the highs of summer and Christmas, the ‘shoulder season’ is the perfect time to enjoy a tailor-made American road trip.
There’s one place that everyone thinks of when they think of Autumn Colour in the USA and that’s New England. Made up of six different states and covering an area as nearly as large as ‘old England’, it can be hard to narrow down which places to include on a road trip though and where to find the best Autumn colour when you are there.
With this in mind, we have picked three unmissable places to include on a road trip to New England.
Meredith, NH
The pretty village of Meredith, New Hampshire is blessed with a gorgeous lakeside location, ringed by Mountains. During October, the treelined slopes transform from green to red, creating beautiful reflections on the water below. Enjoy a drive through the neighbouring White Mountains or take a boat trip on the lake to see the Autumn colours at their finest.
After a busy day 'leaf peeping' Meredith provides the perfect base, as you can retire to lakeside hotels and characterful B&B’s that provide a cosy retreat after a day exploring. At this time of year, the towns restaurants will be serving up a bounty of scrumptious Autumnal produce and New England specialities.
Stowe, VT
Stowe, Vermont is best known as a ski town, but before the snow starts to fall, you can watch the leaves drop in this stunning part of New England. With a wealth of activities available there are plenty of ways to see the Autumn colour in and around this beautiful New England town.
Active visitors will enjoy the chance to get out on the water and see the changing Autumn leaves from the unique vantage point of a kayak, canoe or paddleboard – all of which can be hired from nearby Jeffersonville.
There are hiking trails aplenty in and around Stowe, trail options range from easy to expert, giving everyone a chance to appreciate the beauty of the New England fall on foot.
Another way to witness this natural spectacular is to take a zip line tour. Whizzing through the canopy at high speed will give you a bird’s eye view of the New England fall, and is an unforgettable family activity! An alternative and less hair-raising way to see the famous New England foliage from above is to take the Stowe Gondola Ride to the top of Mount Mansfield, the highest mountain in Vermont. On a clear day you will be able to enjoy the spectacular views from the top of the peak including the magnificent Autumn colour below. For those without a head for heights you’ll find a number of scenic drives around Stowe, that you can follow at a leisurely pace throughout this beautiful region.
Arcadia National Park, ME
One last must see for new England is the incredible Arcadia National Park, located near beautiful Bar Harbor, in Maine. Visit the park in early October and you’ll not only find less visitors than the busy summer season, but you'll also have the opportunity to witness the vibrant Autumn colours. The cooler temperatures and crisp sunny days make for much easier hiking than the hot summer months, so you can truly appreciate the beauty of 'Fall'.
Although best known as the gateway to Arcadia National Park, Bar Harbor is lovely destination in its own right. Its mix of luxury boutique hotels, lodges, B&B’s and motels mean there are plenty of options to choose from. Take a boat ride out to the original Fort Knox, enjoy a spooky ghost tour or simply enjoy the many cafes, bakeries and restaurants that add to the quant atmosphere of this relaxed resort town.
If you would like some help planning an Autumnal holiday to New England, then get in touch with our team of friendly experts. All of our itineraries are tailored to suit you and your needs, so no two holidays will be the same.
When booking a road trip with us we will issue you with your very own customised road book which includes driving directions and distances for each leg of your journey.
To view some suggested New England itineraries, click here or phone our team of expert consultants on 01892 779900 or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
We also welcome enquires from the travel trade, so if you would like to setup an account with us then do get in touch.
Our holidays can normally be booked 12 months in advance and can be secured with a low deposit.
Celebrating New Year in the USA & Canada
New Years' Eve is the ultimate excuse for a party all around the world, and while things may be a little more muted again this year, there’s nothing to stop us planning a future New Year holiday in some of the most amazing spots across the USA & Canada.
Niagara Falls, Ontario
As a location, very few destinations can beat Niagara Falls. There are usually concerts set up throughout the area, which are free to attend, and fireworks, a great line up of musical guests and of course Niagara Falls lit up in her best colours, from Queen Victoria Park.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is known as a party city year-round, especially Mardi Gras in February and New Year’s Eve is no exception. Head to Jackson Square in the famed French Quarter where bands and entertainers play through the night, watch fireworks over the mighty Mississippi River and enjoy the afterparty at the bars and clubs up and down Bourbon Street.
Orlando, Florida
Spending New Years Eve at Disney World in Orlando is sure to be an experience unlike any other. Disney offers New Years Eve packages at many of their hotels, including the chance to watch the fireworks from California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and attending the celebrations at the Atlantic Dance Hall at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn.
New York City, New York
New York’s infamous ‘ball drop’ is arguably the most iconic of the world’s New Years’ Eve celebrations. The tradition began in 1907 and, though it may be a little different this year, it usually attracts around a million visitors to the city. If you don’t fancy being in Times Square, there are many hotels which offer New Years’ packages, including The Knickerbocker, where you can watch the celebrations below from their rooftop.
Whitehorse, Yukon
What could be a more memorable way to bring in a New Year than by being with your loved ones, witnessing one of the most awe-inspiring natural phenomena, the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights)? This could be your reality on a holiday to the Canadian territory of the Yukon.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Take part in a traditional luau on a New Years trip to Hawaii; an experience completely unique to the island state. A popular option is the Waikiki Starlight Luau at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Also worth considering is the ‘Party of the Year’ Aloha Tower Marketplace, where you’ll find rides, food trucks, DJs and live music before a firework display at midnight.
Las Vegas, Nevada
In Las Vegas, you could be forgiven for thinking that any night was a celebration, so on New Year, the city must do something special. In a ‘normal’ year, you would expect to find celebrity-hosted nightclub parties and world-class dinner shows. Many casinos also have firework displays at midnight that can be viewed from throughout the Strip.
Banff, Alberta
Banff is a staple winter destination, but have you considered celebrating New Year there? You can enjoy many winter activities, including some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world, dog sledding and ice skating. On the big night itself, watch fireworks and countdown to midnight with other revellers on Caribou Street.
Nashville, Tennessee
Music City Midnight is the centrepiece of celebrations in Nashville, featuring great, well-known musicians, before the city’s own icon ‘Music Note Drop’ of confetti cannons and of course, a firework display. For something a little different, you can also attend a New Years event at the famous Ryman Auditorium or of course, many of the city’s bars and clubs.
If you’d like to experience some of these New Year celebrations for yourself next year, we would love to help you plan a holiday to remember, please do get in touch at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
The Spookiest Haunted Houses of North America
Spooky Season is well and truly here … and it is a BIG deal in the USA and Canada. To celebrate this most creepy of seasons, we wanted to share some of the best real haunted houses on the continent with you.
Are you brave enough to incorporate any of these into your next road trip, or have you experienced any paranormal activity at any of these locations? We would love to hear!
Winchester Mystery House, San Jose, CA
According to legend, this rambling Victorian mansion is haunted by the ghosts of everyone killed by a Winchester rifle, the gun that was developed by the home’s owner William Winchester and his father before they died within 4 months of each other in 1880. To appease the spirits, William’s widow Sarah began creating a labyrinthine house filled with halls that lead nowhere, doors that open onto sheer drops, sloping floors, 47 fireplaces, 13 bathrooms and 9 kitchens.
Since her death in 1922, the home has hosted tours for those willing to walk among the Winchester ghosts. Would you dare?
Villisca Axe Murder House, Villisca, IA
Back in 1912, the Villisca Axe Murder House in Iowa was the site of a horrifying crime that left an entire family dead by axe. There were several suspects, but no one was ever charged with the horrific crime.
The family’s ghosts are said to remain in the house and visitors after a taste of the supernatural can book tours of the site and you can even spend the night in the home if you feel brave enough.
The Sallie House, Atchison, KS
This unassuming home in Kansas is rumoured to be the dark lair for a demon who takes on the form of a little girl. Several of the houses’ former residents reports strange phenomena including flickering lights, possessions, unexplained voices and even strange scratches, marks or burns on their bodies.
Today, the infamous house now offers self-guided tours or special overnight visits.
The Lizzie Borden House, Fall River, MA
The Borden family home, and site of Andrew and Abby Borden’s brutal murder in 1892, has now been turned into a museum and bed & breakfast where guests can walk in the footsteps of the family and even stay the night in one of its reportedly haunted rooms.
Andrew & Abby’s daughter Lizzie was long suspected of committing the crime but was never charged, due to a lack of evidence.
Craigdarroch Castle, Victoria, BC
The castle, built in the 1890s by Robert Dunsmuir, is one of Victoria’s most loved tourist attractions and one of its most haunted. Visitors have reported hearing a mysterious piano playing and others claim to have seen a woman in white, supposedly Mrs. Dunsmuir, looking out the window. Many attribute the castles’ supernatural proclivity to Dunsmuir’s untimely demise just a year before the building was completed.
The house is now open for self-guided tours – visit and keep an eye out for any ghostly activity!
House of Death, New York, NY
The brownstone in Greenwich Village is said to be haunted by 22 people who have lived or died within the walls of the home, on West 10th Street, including that of a 6-year-old child who was beaten by her adoptive father. There are also claims that author Mark Twain once called the address home and is known to visit from time to time.
The home is now apartments so you can’t tour the interior but many ghost tours of the city stop by the building.
The Whaley House, San Diego, CA
Back in 1852, James "Yankee Jim" Robinson was hung for the crime of grand larceny. A few years later, Thomas and Anna Whaley built a house on the spot where Robinson died, and it has since been said that Yankee Jim’s footsteps can be heard clumping around the house. The Whaley’s and even their family dog are also said to haunt the home.
If you visit and tour the home on your travels, we’d love to hear about it!
The Keg Mansion, Toronto, ON
Now a Keg steakhouse in downtown Toronto, the mansion was once the home of industrialist Hart Massey and his family. Legend has it that after the death of Massey’s daughter in 1915, their maid was so distraught that she completed suicide in the building.
Many diners have reported having seen the maid and several other spirits. So much so, in fact, that the staff at the restaurant keep a ‘ghost log’ to document encounters.
If you want to go and explore any of these haunted houses for yourself as part of your next road trip, contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and we will be happy to help you put together a spooky fly-drive!