Holiday travel tips for planning your dream winter getaway

The most wonderful time of the year is just around the corner, and these tips will make sure your holiday vacation goes off without a hitch.

By Paul Oswell | October 16, 2025

Make it a festive stay with Hilton

There’s that first hint of chill in the air, a change of hue in the trees, and a chance to wear your favorite cozy sweater. Fall arrives, marking the beginning of the upcoming holiday season. Plans to see family and friends need to be made, or perhaps you prefer a romantic winter getaway for two. Whatever your needs, Hilton has the perfect winter escape. Read on to discover our holiday travel tips for making the most of your winter vacation.

Make memories in New York

Imagine watching the Thanksgiving parade with your family from a prime vantage point overlooking New York City’s Sixth Avenue. Forget any looming holiday stress and spend time making memories as the floats and balloons pass by in a symphony of color. This is the start of the holiday season at New York Hilton Midtown, where every generation of your family can stay together, with Confirmed Connecting Rooms by Hilton™ ensuring everyone has their own space. The Hilton Honors app gives your group even more freedom and time to socialize, avoiding front desk lines with your Digital Key. Beyond the parade, a sunny walk through nearby Central Park or strolling through the inspiring halls of the Museum of Modern Art will keep everyone happy. Don’t forget your morning fuel at Herb N' Kitchen, which serves hot coffee and dishes made with fresh honey from the hotel’s rooftop hives.

Warm up in San Diego

Seasonal decorations in San Diego sparkle as brightly as anywhere, making this family-friendly city the perfect holiday getaway for anyone who prefers winter sunshine over snow. Gather around a beach bonfire at Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton and swap chestnuts for s’mores as your fireside treats while watching your favorite holiday movie on an outdoor projector screen. On-site and local experiences are the gifts that keep on giving at Hotel del Coronado. With mild year-round temperatures, you can enjoy everything from surfing lessons to an interactive aquarium for younger guests. Holiday dining is also taken care of at the hotel, with flavorful meals served at the on-site restaurants. When it’s time to relax or open presents, everyone will feel comfortable in the spacious villas and beachfront cottages at Beach Village at The Del, LXR Hotels & Resorts, or Shore House at The Del, LXR Hotels & Resorts — both private enclaves within the resort.

Feel renewed in Las Vegas

It’s time to celebrate the end of one year and look forward to another filled with new adventures and memorable moments. Celebrate new beginnings at Resorts World Las Vegas, where you can start the new year focused on your happiness and well-being, balancing revelry with a positive outlook, and spending quality time connecting with loved ones. Enjoy spectacular shows at Resorts World Theater and take the party to the dance floors at Ayu Dayclub and Zouk Nightclub. Spend your downtime focusing on relaxation and rejuvenation. The resort’s Awana Spa soothes the mind, body, and soul with holistic treatments and massages, including a special Sauna-Meister-led journey with cleansing and scented steam. You’ll emerge from your stay a new person, feeling rested, invigorated, and ready for the next chapter.

Paul Oswell

Paul Oswell is a British award-winning journalist and published travel author based in New Orleans, Louisiana. His books include Bucket List North America and The Great American Road Trip, as well as New Orleans' Historic Hotels. He has also been an editor of and contributor to several guidebooks/editions published by Dorling Kindersley (owned by Penguin), including New Orleans, Florida, Orlando, Los Angeles, California, and The United States. His work has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure (both of which he has written multiple online travel guides for) and The Guardian, as well as dozens of international newspaper and magazine titles, and inflight magazines for major airlines.

Headshot of author Paul Oswell

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