If you’ve ever wanted to recreate a Hallmark holiday movie set in real life or spend the night in the middle of an enchanted winter forest, now’s your chance. Hotels and resorts nationwide are rolling out the holiday red carpet with fun and festive pop-up suites and guest experiences. Think: elegant, designer-decorated trees based on individual cottage themes at Twin Farms in Vermont, or kitschy designs based on beloved holiday films such as Royal Park Hotel’s Maker’s Mark Merry & Bright Suite with an homage to all things Buddy the Elf. (We’re talking paper snowflake garlands and a large-scale wall decal of Buddy himself.) From a “Home Alone”-themed suite in Chicago with a build-your-own sundae cart that would make Kevin McCallister proud, to a tropical-inspired suite at a revamped midcentury hideaway in Santa Rosa, there’s something for every kind of holiday traveler. Ahead, our favorite ways to escape to a personal winter wonderland and soak up the magic of the holiday season—all without leaving the room.
For The One-of-A Kind Style Seeker
Twin Farms
At Twin Farms—a 300-acre woodsy luxury Relais & Chateau property in Barnard, Vermont—you’ll spend the night with your own designer tree. Transformed by floral and event designer Tedd Kapinos of Jasper & Prudence Co., who also designs the property’s outdoor décor including the covered bridge and entry gate, each guest accommodation is designed with individual, fresh-cut Noble Fir holiday trees based on room themes. Take, for example, the Perch cottage tree fashioned with twine garland and baubles inspired by fly fishing, and the Studio cottage tree adorned with gilded picture frames and a burlap tree skirt.
For the Big Kid
Hotel Commonwealth
Located a short walk from famed Fenway Park in Boston, the 245-room hotel features a holiday suite decked in floor-to-ceiling holiday décor. Expect a fully-appointed Christmas tree, draped tree garland with red ribbon, and holiday-inspired pillow shams and matching blankets. Hunker down for the night to binge-watch holiday movies while indulging in freshly baked gingerbread cookies and hot cocoa with decadent chocolate bombs.
For A Night with the Little Ones
Loews Chicago Hotel
A giant, scarf-wearing stuffed animal polar bear, a winter white kid’s tent, ceiling projections simulating the Northern Lights, and plush faux-fur throws set the scene inside the Nordic Night Lights suite. Perks include an in-room movie, a $50 breakfast credit, a bedtime book cart for children, and a winter-themed virtual storytime session with a local book purveyor.
For the Retro, Tropical-inspired Holiday Enthusiast
Flamingo Resort & Spa
Built in 1957 by acclaimed developer Hugh Codding, the Santa Rosa property once lured Hollywood’s elite, including Marilyn Monroe, Jayne Mansfield, and Frank Sinatra. The resort’s 625-square-foot Santa Suites(available through January 6, 2025) were created in partnership with THTR Productions. Each one beckons guests with tropical-inspired accessories and retro nuances, such as ceramic Santa bath soap dispensers, fireplaces draped with stockings, wall hangings wrapped as presents, and flocked Christmas trees. For more holiday decor immersion, head to the Sippin’ Santa pop-up bar.
For The Nostalgic Holiday Film Buff
Virgin Hotels Chicago
The hotel’s extravagant “Lost in The Loop” holiday suite is a tribute to all things “Home Alone” with a generous in-room dining credit totaling $967.43 and an over-the-top sundae cart with vanilla ice cream and copious toppings to build the ultimate dessert. Round out the experience with a full-day limo ride around town plus a cheese pizza from the on-site Italian restaurant, Miss Ricky’s, and a Polaroid camera to document your adventures. Meanwhile, at Virgin Hotels New Orleans, “Ralphie’s Virgin Vacation Suite” (available December 1, 2024), is a wink to “A Christmas Story.” Your booking comes with a set of bunny pajamas, a Christmas tree with ornaments for just-for-you decorating, a dinner prepared by Executive Chef Chris Borges, and a complimentary spot by the fire at the Pool Club Rooftop & Bar.
For a Coastal-Inspired Holiday
Ponte Vedra Inn & Club
Opened in 1928, the 262-room beachfront hotel is an iconic destination. The holiday haven package includes a fully decorated 6-plus-foot frosted Frazier Fir tree; a letter to Santa kit; a keepsake ornament; and hot chocolate and treats delivered by hotel elves on the night of arrival.
