The holiday season is well underway, which means cozy sweaters, freshly baked cookies, and mugs of something warm are all but required. And if you’re dreaming of a festive escape without hopping on a plane, you’re in luck: Vogue has named Bucks County, Pennsylvania one of the best Christmas towns in the United States. Just a short drive from Philadelphia, Bucks County delivers the kind of storybook holiday atmosphere that feels downright magical.
Best Christmas towns: Bucks County, PA
According to Vogue, Bucks County shines during the holidays thanks to its charming small towns, festive traditions, and immersive seasonal experiences. Whether you’re strolling through a historic village or hopping aboard a vintage train, the region offers a slower-paced, extra-cozy alternative to city celebrations.
Highlights include New Hope, where visitors can sip hot chocolate aboard a historic steam train, and Yardley, where open-air wagon rides wind through dazzling holiday light displays.
Indeed, small-town charm is immediate in Bucks County, making it one the best places to live in the country.
Peddler’s Village is the heart of the magic
One of the biggest reasons Bucks County earned national recognition is Peddler’s Village, a beloved holiday destination that goes all out each winter.
The village features:
- over 65 specialty shops decorated for the season
- a charming 1920s-style carousel
- an annual gingerbread house display that’s as impressive as it is festive
With cobblestone paths, historic buildings, and glowing lights at every turn, it’s easy to see why this spot is a holiday favorite year after year.
Next, for those looking for an extra dose of festive charm, book an overnight stay at The Golden Plough Inn. Located right in the heart of Peddler’s Village, the inn is made up of several historical buildings include a former post office and stone structures that once served as a 19th-century stagecoach stop.
Why you should visit one of America’s best Christmas towns
The best Christmas towns aren’t just about decorations; they’re about atmosphere, tradition, and a sense of wonder. Bucks County delivers all of that, making it a perfect winter getaway for Philadelphians looking to trade city streets for twinkling village lanes.
Whether you go for a day trip or an overnight stay, this enchanting destination proves you don’t have to travel far to find holiday magic.