Best Christmas Inns in New England: Top 15 Most Unique Spots

New England knows how to do Christmas right. The local cozy inns and holiday charm make it the perfect spot for festive holiday getaways in New England. If you’re dreaming of a magical Christmas escape, here’s a rundown of the best places to hang your hat and relish in the holiday spirit.

Read on for the best New England travel guide for Christmas getaways.

Ready to discover the best Christmas inns in New England? Let’s get into it:

 

  Map design by Stanton House Inn  with elements from Flaticon

The Best Christmas Inns in New England

The Red Lion Inn | Stockbridge, Massachusetts

The Red Lion Inn in the town of Stockbridge, MA, of the Berkshires is about as “New England Christmas” as it gets. This inn, dating back to 1773, goes all out for the holidays. Over 30 Christmas trees, each decked out in unique decorations, turn the 125-room inn into a festive forest. Visit in December to catch live harp music or even middle school carolers serenading guests in the lobby. And don’t miss Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas. The whole town transforms into a holiday postcard, complete with caroling, house tours, and cozy holiday readings.

Unique Holiday Activities:

• Self-Guided Holiday Tours: Wander through the Berkshires’ dazzling light displays. Different spots feature over 120,000 twinkling lights and enchanting LED tunnels.

• Live Entertainment: December brings daily performances in the lobby. The roster includes local musicians to cheery carolers.

• Culinary Delights: Enjoy classic New England fare with a holiday twist. Top spots include the historic dining room or the cozy Widow Bingham’s Tavern.

The Wilburton | Manchester, Vermont

Over in Manchester, Vermont, The Wilburton is a Christmas experience with a personal touch. The Levis family, who’ve run this 1902 mansion for 30 years, really know how to make the holidays special. Expect a beautifully decorated tree, festive décor, and their signature event—a “canine Christmas slumber party.” Yep, you can bring your pup along for the fun, and they’ll even get to strut around in holiday attire!

Unique Holiday Activities at The Wilburton:

• Canine Christmas Slumber Party: Bring your dog along for a weekend of festive fun, where pups are encouraged to dress in their holiday best.

• Holiday Shopping: Shop ’til you drop at local boutiques and the nearby Manchester Designer Outlets. Perfect for ticking off that holiday gift list.

Francis Malbone House | Newport, Rhode Island

This charming Newport, RI, bed-and-breakfast, dating back to 1760, decks the halls like a pro. It’s won more awards for holiday decorating than you can shake a candy cane at! Owner Will Dewey makes sure every inch of the place sparkles with Christmas cheer. Be on the lookout for the dome-ceilinged dining room and the grand staircase, draped in evergreens. And with luxurious touches like Italian linens, in-room fireplaces, and marble baths, you might not leave the Francis Malbone House until the new year.

Unique Holiday Activities:

• Doorway Decorating Contest: The inn’s entrance is a showstopper in Newport’s annual decorating contest. Stroll around and soak up the festive vibes.

• Festive Dining: Enjoy a gourmet breakfast or holiday-themed dinner in the decorated dining room. An experience as cozy as a warm winter blanket.

Captain Jefferds Inn | Kennebunkport, Maine

Kennebunkport’s Christmas Prelude is the stuff of which holiday dreams are made . And the Captain Jefferds Inn puts you right in the middle of the action. This 1804 sea captain’s mansion offers a front-row seat to the town’s two-week festive bash. Start your day with a gourmet three-course breakfast, then dive into caroling, shopping, and craft fairs. Afterward, warm up by the inn’s fireplace with a cup of cocoa or mulled wine—because nothing says “Christmas” like a roaring fire and good company.

Unique Holiday Activities:

• Christmas Prelude: Kennebunkport’s famous holiday celebration includes caroling, shopping, and plenty of local crafts.

• Cozy Gatherings: After a day of festivities, kick back by the fire with a hot drink and share stories of your holiday adventures.

Stanton House Inn | Greenwich, Connecticut

The team at Stanton House Inn loves to decorate this historic inn for the holiday season. This 1840s mansion festooned in decorations adds a certain elegant charm to the season. Greenwich Avenue is within walking distance, a perfect place for holiday shopping and dining by an open fire.

Unique Holiday Activities in December in Greenwich, CT:

• Self-Guided Holiday Tours: Meander down Greenwich Avenue at your leisure to admire the annual holiday lights displays.

• Holiday High Tea: Enjoy a cozy afternoon tea at Cady’s Tea Room, with an assortment of teas and seasonal treats in an elegant and festive setting.

• Holiday Shopping: Finishing off your holiday shopping list is easy with so many shops close-by. Don’t miss curated holiday shops at the Bush-Holley House, plus holiday markets throughout the month.

Christmas Farm Inn | Jackson, New Hampshire

The Christmas Farm Inn in Jackson, New Hampshire, lives and breathes Christmas 365 days a year. And yet, when December rolls around, it really pulls out all the stops. From festive decorations to holiday meals that make you feel like you’re in a snow globe, this inn has it all. Plus, with its location near ski resorts, you can mix in some winter sports with your holiday cheer.

Unique Holiday Activities:

• Year-Round Christmas Celebrations: Experience the magic of Christmas all year. Extra-special touches in December include themed events and festive meals.

• Winter Sports: Hit the slopes at nearby ski resorts or explore snowshoeing and cross country skiing trails. Perfect for adding a little adventure to your holiday.

Mayflower Inn & Spa | Washington, Connecticut

For a Christmas getaway that’s as luxurious as it is festive, the Mayflower Inn & Spa in Washington, Connecticut, is the place to be. Enjoy a three-course Christmas dinner whipped up by a renowned Chef-In-Residence. And if you’re in the mood to relax, their winter-themed spa treatments are just the ticket. You can even pick up a specially designed ornament, with the proceeds going to a local charity—holiday spirit meets indulgence!

Unique Holiday Activities:

• Chef-In-Residence Holiday Dinners: Savor a unique Christmas dinner experience with gourmet dishes crafted by a top chef.

• Spa Treatments: Treat yourself to a winter-themed spa session, the perfect way to unwind during the holiday hustle.

White Barn Inn | Kennebunk, Maine

Looking for a coastal Christmas that’s a bit out of the ordinary? The White Barn Inn in Kennebunk, Maine, has you covered. Dog sled through Maine’s snowy backcountry, the cold air on your face, and the sound of paws crunching through fresh snow. That’s just one of the unique winter activities they offer. The inn also hosts a cozy holiday market. Here, you can snag small treasures like handcrafted ornaments, candles, and even preserves from the Chef’s kitchen.

Feeling peckish? Their three-course Christmas meal at the White Barn Inn Restaurant and Little Barn is a feast to remember. It features local delights like Kennebunkport lobster and a ribeye prime rib crusted with herbs. And if relaxation is more your speed, the New England spa has winter-themed treatments that’ll leave you feeling like a new person.

Unique Holiday Activities:

• Dog Sledding Adventures: Experience the thrill of dog sledding through Maine’s scenic countryside—a holiday memory you won’t soon forget.

• Holiday Market: Browse the inn’s festive market for unique gifts and gourmet goodies, perfect for treating yourself or someone special.

Trapp Family Lodge | Stowe, Vermont

Now, what’s more Christmas-y than a family classic? The Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, Vermont, is the place to be. This lodge, inspired by the von Trapp family of “The Sound of Music” fame, brings Austrian charm to the mountains of New England. With a good chance of fresh snow during the holidays, the whole place looks like it’s straight out of a winter postcard. There’s a reason this is one of the best winter getaways in New England, no matter the month.

Quick Tip for planning trips to the best Christmas Inns in New England

If you’re planning a Christmas getaway in New England, book early—these spots fill up faster than Santa’s sleigh on:

• Weekends

• Christmas Eve

• And New Year’s Eve

And if a snowy holiday is a must, aim for inns in northern Vermont, New Hampshire, or Maine, especially in the mountains.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which inn has the best festive decorations?

If you’re all about holiday decor, the Francis Malbone House in Newport, Rhode Island, is the place to be. This historic gem has won multiple awards, including the grand prize in Newport’s doorway decorating contest back in 2018. Inside, the atmosphere is pure Christmas magic, with sparkling decorations everywhere you look. The dining room is a showstopper, with a grand tree and elegant evergreen swags that make it feel like you’ve stepped into a holiday postcard.

Another contender for top festive vibes is The Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. This place goes all out, with more than 30 individually decorated Christmas trees spread across the property. It’s warm, it’s inviting, and with daily entertainment in the lobby, it’s like a mini holiday festival every day.

Are there any pet-friendly Christmas inns in New England?

Yes! New England’s got some great options if you’re looking to bring your furry friend along for the holiday fun. Pick your pet-friendly inn based on where you’re going:

• Captain Jefferds Inn – Kennebunkport, Maine B&B

• The Wilburton – Manchester, Vermont: complete with a unique “canine Christmas slumber party.”

• The Red Lion Inn – Stockbridge, Massachusetts

• Francis Malbone House – Newport, Rhode Island: Call ahead to check availability.

How early should I book a room at these inns for Christmas?

When it comes to booking a room at these popular Christmas inns, the early bird catches the worm—or in this case, the best room. Here’s the scoop:

• Book Early: These inns are in high demand during the holidays, especially the ones known for their festive decorations and special holiday activities. To get your top pick, aim to book several months in advance—late summer or early fall is a good bet.

• Special Events: If you’ve got your heart set on a particular event like Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas or Kennebunkport’s Christmas Prelude, book as soon as the dates are announced. This usually happens in spring or early summer, so keep an eye out.

• Holiday Packages: Many inns offer special holiday packages that include meals, activities, and other festive goodies. These can sell out quickly, so inquire early to snag a spot.

• Flexible Dates: If your schedule allows, consider booking for weekdays or earlier in December. Weekends and dates closer to Christmas fill up fast, so a little flexibility could mean better availability.

What are peak dates for Christmas stays at these inns?

If you’re planning a Christmas getaway in New England, timing is everything. Here’s a quick guide to the peak dates for some of the most festive inns around:

• Captain Jefferds Inn (Kennebunkport, ME):

  • Christmas Prelude: Early December (2-week festival).

• The Red Lion Inn (Stockbridge, MA):

  • Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas: First weekend in December.

• Francis Malbone House (Newport, RI):

  • Christmas in Newport: Mid-December.

• Christmas Farm Inn (Jackson, NH):

  • Holiday Season: All of December, especially weekends.

• Mayflower Inn & Spa (Washington, CT):

  • Christmas Season: Entire month of December.

• White Barn Inn (Kennebunk, ME):

  • Holiday Season: December, particularly weekends and pre-Christmas days.

Are there any holiday markets or shopping events near these New England inns?

New England hosts festive markets that are a holiday shopper’s paradise. And there are great spots near your pick of Christmas getaways:

• Kennebunkport Christmas Prelude (Near Captain Jefferds Inn, Kennebunkport, ME):

  • Early December, 2-week event.

  • Local markets, craft fairs, unique gifts, artisanal foods.

• Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas (Near The Red Lion Inn, Stockbridge, MA):

  • First weekend in December.

  • Local vendors, craft fairs, handmade gifts, decorations.

• Newport Holiday Market (Near Francis Malbone House, Newport, RI):

  • Weekends in December.

  • Local artisans, crafts, unique gifts, gourmet treats.

• Jackson Village Holiday Market (Near Christmas Farm Inn, Jackson, NH):

  • December weekends.

  • Handmade crafts, holiday decorations, seasonal treats.

• Washington Holiday Market (Near Mayflower Inn & Spa, Washington, CT):

  • Early December.

  • Regional artisans, handmade goods, unique gifts.

• White Barn Holiday Market (At White Barn Inn, Kennebunk, ME):

  • Part of the inn’s holiday offerings.

  • Ornaments, candles, gourmet foods from the Chef’s kitchen.