From snow tubing in Texas to sandcastle tree lightings in Key West, these stays bring the magic.
Words by Ashley Locke
All across the South, hotels are decking the halls… and then some. We’ve discovered festive pop-up bars, teddy bear teas, shimmering sculpture gardens, island-style celebrations, and rooftop countdowns that feel straight out of a holiday movie.
Whether you’re booking a stay, making a dinner reservation, or just stopping in for a seasonal sip, these hotels are the perfect place to soak up the holiday spirit.
The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel – New Orleans, LA
Every December, The Roosevelt becomes a destination in itself with its block-long “Waldorf Wonderland” lighting display, featuring over 112,000 lights, 4,000 ornaments, and a magical energy that lights up the whole city block. Grab a drink at the Sazerac Bar or take the little ones to Teddy Bear Tea, a decades-long tradition filled with storytelling, carols, and a visit from Santa himself. Plus, it’s just steps from the French Quarter!
This spring, we’ll sit down with the Roosevelt’s concierge for a rare peek into the stories, secrets, and serendipities that define this iconic New Orleans hotel. Click here to subscribe now + be the first to read it!
Casa Marina – Key West, FL
Dreaming of a white (sand) Christmas? Casa Marina’s iconic sandcastle tree lighting might be the most beachy, beautiful way to kick off the holidays. With cookie decorating, Santa letters, and the beloved Lighted Boat Parade, this Curio Collection resort brings big cheer to the Conch Republic.
Pelican Grand Beach Resort – Fort Lauderdale, FL
This year, Pelican Grand is taking holiday magic to new heights—literally. In collaboration with Draper James and King of Christmas, the resort is transforming its premier rooftop Sky Suite into The Holiday Suite, a one-of-a-kind festive retreat overlooking the Atlantic. Think: King of Christmas trees twinkling beside Draper James’ signature Southern holiday bedding, curated wardrobe pieces (hello, matching family pajamas!), nightly festive turndown, and even a rooftop Sugarplum Bubble Bath under the stars. To top it off, guests can enjoy seasonal spa treatments, a personal Christmas concierge, and gingerbread house–making with champagne.
Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead – Atlanta, GA
In Buckhead, elegance meets enchantment. Join Santa for family-friendly cookie decorating, or indulge in the Winter Wonderland Tea complete with live music and holiday-inspired fare. On New Year’s Eve, they pull out all the stops with A Gilded Waldorf Astoria Affair, where tarot readings and chef-curated bites set the tone for a sparkling new year.
Hilton Anatole – Dallas, TX
Everything’s bigger in Texas, including the holiday cheer. From the 10,000-square-foot outdoor wonderland to the Texan take on snow tubing and a towering Ferris wheel, the Hilton Anatole turns its lawn into a full-blown Christmas carnival. Don’t miss the Santa Suite or the new outdoor ice rink—one of just two in the entire city.
Hilton Americas – Houston, TX
Disney fans, rejoice. This year, Hilton Americas-Houston celebrates Disneyland® Resort’s 70th anniversary with a jaw-dropping, life-size chocolate installation crafted by its in-house pastry team. It’s whimsical, delicious, and the perfect excuse to swing by with your sweet tooth.
The Historic Cavalier Hotel & Beach Club – Virginia Beach, VA
A Good Grit favorite, The Cavalier brings its Gilded Age glamour to the holidays with towering nutcrackers, ornate seasonal décor, and a festive atmosphere that feels instantly transportive. The century-old icon blends coastal sophistication with timeless tradition, creating a holiday backdrop that feels both grand and inviting. You’ll also spot The Cavalier in our Winter 2025 Hotels Worth Traveling For feature! Consider this your sign to experience a coastal Christmas done very right.
Lake Nona Wave Hotel – Orlando, FL
Just beyond the theme parks, Orlando’s Lake Nona neighborhood transforms into Peppermint Square during its “Oh What Fun!” festival. Stroll through an Evergreen Tree Trail to find the Fa La La La Bar, a seasonal cocktail pop-up nestled inside the hotel’s sculpture garden. Bonus: it’s Michelin-Key-awarded. Yep, fancy and fun.
The Biltmore Hotel – Miami, FL
A hundred years of history, and a holiday spirit to match. The Biltmore dresses up for the season with palm trees wrapped in lights, classic decor, and can’t-miss experiences like Afternoon High Tea with Santa and an Italian-style Christmas Eve dinner under the stars at Fontana.
