The festive season is on the horizon, which means it’s about time to start your holiday movie marathon. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites and travel inspiration to recreate your favorite moments. Where will you be going this year?
Best Man Holiday
Overview: The film follows a group of friends reuniting during the holidays after many years apart. They gather together at the home of their famous professional football-playing friend in upstate New York. The hosts have curated an impeccable, festive itinerary for their guests, but they cannot escape reality on this getaway. While tensions rise and secrets are revealed, in the end, the friends are there to support each other.
Travel Inspiration: Best Man Holiday makes the case for a lavish getaway. Although it may not solve all your problems, it feels good to be pampered. If none of your friends have a mansion upstate, do not fret! Wildflower Farms offers a bucolic backdrop to its luxurious accommodations and their team of Itinerary Designers will help you plan the perfect stay from Gingerbread House making and cocktail classes in partnership with ABASK to spa treatments and seasonal crafting on the Great Porch.
Elf
Overview: When Buddy the Elf leaves the North Pole in search of his human (gasp!) father, he spreads cheer across New York City, inspiring the most unexpected people to rejoice in the magic of the holidays. Buddy’s escapades bring him to a fancy department store, the Empire State Building, Central Park, and more. Buddy reminds us that the holidays are THE time to find your inner childhood spirit, and there’s nothing more magical than NYC.
Travel Inspiration: New York City, of course! For those looking for a central home base in Manhattan, look no further than Park Lane New York. Located on Billionaire’s Row, the hotel boasts stunning views of Central Park, whimsical room designs, and an indulgent in-room Caviar Hotline. Just steps away from Bergdorf Goodman, Radio City Music Hall, and the tree at Rockefeller Center, guests of Park Lane can have an elevated stay while reveling in the childlike wonder of the holidays in the City.
Love Hard
Overview: A jaded, Los Angeles-based dating columnist thinks she has finally found love on a dating app. Excited about their budding romance, she travels to Lake Placid to surprise her match, but finds out she’s been catfished by a man who has used pictures of his childhood friend in his profile. She tries to force a relationship with his childhood friend only to realize that although the optics were a facade, the connection was truly real.
Travel Inspiration: If you’re looking for a quintessential winter getaway, Eastwind Lake Placid is the place for you. Get cozy with your Significant Other in a Lushna Suite, the property’s signature luxury cabin with stunning views of the Chubb River. When you’re not cuddling in your loft bed or sharing cocktails on your porch, explore the town’s Olympic History and the surrounding parklands in the Adirondacks.
Polar Express
Overview: A boy questioning his belief in Santa Claus on Christmas Eve, embarks on a train ride that will forever instill in him the magic of the holidays. As he travels on a fantastical snowy adventure, he hesitantly delights in winter rituals before arriving at the North Pole. Upon meeting Santa Claus, he receives a gift that sparks a joy that will never fade.
Travel Inspiration: While not the actual North Pole, Aspen is the ultimate destination for those seeking a winter wonderland. Stay at The Little Nell, Aspen’s only five-star, five-diamond ski-in/ski-out hotel, to celebrate the holidays in style. With unfettered access to the slopes, a Les Clefs d’Or-certified Concierge team, and a slew of festive activities, you, too, will believe in the magic of the season.
White Christmas
Overview: An entertaining sister duo lures a pair of famous performers who met while serving time in the army to Vermont for their holiday gig at a charming inn. Upon arrival, they find that the owner is the men’s Major General, and he is facing bankruptcy, which is compounded by a lack of snow. In the spirit of the holidays, the sisters and the double-act hatch a plan to save the hotel.
Travel Inspiration: Stowe, Stowe, Stowe, Stowe! The world-class mountain resort town is home to the highest peak in Vermont and a vibrant cultural scene. At Outbound Stowe, you can choose from cozy rooms, modern suites, or multi-room cabins. Explore the great outdoors while skiing on the slopes or embarking on a dog-sledding adventure. The town’s museums, art galleries, and breweries can also not be missed.
