Top holiday hacks: Save stress and add joy with thoughtful amenities this festive season
Between city getaways and seaside escapes, there’s always something new to discover when the holidays roll around. Discover how a few key amenities can elevate your festive stay and help you make the most of your holiday in these top destinations.
By Alina Dizik | October 23, 2025
Booking flights, finalizing plans, and scrounging for last-minute gifts means holiday travel can be downright hectic. But with the right hotel, even a short trip can turn into a memorable getaway. Whether you’re on a family adventure or traveling with friends, Hilton’s premium amenities like free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfasts, and retreat-like suites help you focus on what’s truly important: spending time with people you love.
Carlsbad, New Mexico
Whether you’re off to explore the trails around Carlsbad Caverns or Guadalupe Mountains National Park, visiting Carlsbad immerses you in the natural beauty of the American Southwest. A stay at Home2 Suites by Hilton Carlsbad means you can leave logistics behind. Start your morning with a free breakfast, complete with waffles, eggs, potato pancakes, bistro pastries, and even a make-your-own breakfast sandwich option. The pet-friendly hotel has a fitness center, as well as laundry facilities, complimentary parking, and Confirmed Connecting Rooms by Hilton™, giving you plenty of room for your family’s comfort. Suites with modern kitchens offer extra convenience, while Carlsbad’s quaint city center is just a short drive away. Be sure to enjoy the seasonal markets and boat rides with views of the holiday lights along the Pecos River.
Chicago
Chicago makes it easy to get in the festive spirit, whether you’re strolling by holiday window displays along Magnificent Mile, visiting Christkindlmarket for mulled wine, or admiring the Christmas tree in Millennium Park. Make Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago-Downtown your home base to stay close to the action. The downtown location means you’re walking distance to the theater district, Navy Pier, and the stunning Wrigley Building, a historical skyscraper. Complete with an indoor pool and fitness facilities for recreation convenience, the hotel has rooms that include sofa beds making it ideal for family travel. Guests can also enjoy complimentary hot breakfast, along with a 24-hour coffee and tea station. For a hearty lunch or dinner, head to Olio E Piu, the hotel’s signature on-site restaurant, offering Italian staples like gnocchi, burrata, and bruschetta.
Los Cabos, Mexico
The serene setting overlooking the Sea of Cortez makes Mexico’s Los Cabos region a favorite for holiday travelers. At Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort, settle into one of the thoughtfully designed rooms, which include breezy balconies and ocean views. The resort’s stunning infinity pools offer a pool concierge with little details like sunglasses cleaning, mini fruit popsicles, and board games included. Adults will appreciate oceanfront massages at eforea Spa, while younger guests can have fun at the Cabo Kids’ Club. Add direct access to cove-protected beaches, award-winning golf courses around the corner, and four gourmet dining options with a Baja twist to elevate your stay. For a holiday treat, consider adventures like dolphin encounters or scuba diving to make the trip extra special.
Alina Dizik
Alina Dizik is a veteran lifestyle journalist, covering travel, real estate, family, work trends, and dining. She lives in Chicago and has previously lived in New York, Europe, and the Middle East. She spends more than two months each year traveling internationally with her husband and two school-age children. Alina has visited more than 50 countries, and her work appears in The Wall Street Journal, BBC, The Cut, The Guardian, and other top publications.
Save up to 25% during The Hilton Sale
Whether you’re craving a cozy city break or the thrill of somewhere new, find the perfect holiday stay in top destinations across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and more. Book November 5 through December 15, 2025.
Explore more holiday escapes with Hilton
Holiday gift guide: 3 bucket-list travel experiences
Your memories of a transcendent trip will linger long after holiday's end.
Tropical destinations for an ideal holiday getaway
Jumpstart your winter holiday planning — balmy climes, palm-fringed beaches, and azure waters await.
Lavish Las Vegas: Your sophisticated holiday escape awaits
The glittering lights of Las Vegas offer fun and festivities this holiday season.
Elevated beach getaways for holiday travel
These top beach destinations set the stage for a memorable holiday escape, complete with festive dining, exclusive experiences, and plenty of cheer.
Read more:
Find travel inspiration