Travel Destinations Inspired by Your Favorite Holiday Films

During the holiday season, there's something magical about cold weather that makes snuggling up on the couch with hot cocoa, popcorn, and a great movie the ideal way to spend your time indoors.

Whether you enjoy Hallmark films, timeless classics, or what I refer to as "holiday adjacent" movies (like "Die Hard"), there are plenty of delightful Christmas-themed films to enjoy this season — and some might even spark your next real-life adventure.

As we envision destinations to explore in 2022, here's a guide on where to book your next getaway inspired by your favorite holiday film.

'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone'

Just as "Die Hard" is undoubtedly a Christmas classic, so too is "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone." If you're envisioning a holiday season at Hogwarts, you can easily turn those dreams into reality.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, offers an immersive experience that brings to life many iconic settings from the Harry Potter films. You can explore beloved locations such as Diagon Alley and Hogwarts Castle. Don't miss the chance to visit Olivanders, The Three Broomsticks, and even take a ride on the Hogwarts Express.

There are countless ways to immerse yourself in the magic of Harry Potter. You can tour filming locations throughout the U.K. or embark on a set tour in London. In New York City, you can visit a Harry Potter store stocked with unique merchandise, a wand shop, engaging experiences, and a cafe where you can enjoy your own butterbeer.

'Eloise at Christmastime'

For me, no Christmas movie captures my childhood like "Eloise at Christmastime." Based on Kay Thompson's beloved stories, it features the mischievous Eloise as she creates chaos at The Plaza hotel. You can relive the charm of this classic film by visiting New York City, especially The Plaza itself.

After closing its doors during the early days of the coronavirus pandemic, The Plaza reopened to guests in May 2021. You can now enjoy a stay here, but even a visit without an overnight stay is possible. The Palm Court offers a delightful Manhattan Tea package for those seeking the full Plaza experience.

New York City is a backdrop for numerous holiday films. Whether you're fond of classics like "Miracle on 34th Street," "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York," or "Elf," the Big Apple is still the perfect destination to recreate the magic of those festive movies.

'The Holiday'

As my all-time favorite Christmas film, I couldn't overlook "The Holiday." This enchanting story revolves around two women seeking to escape their troubles over the holidays by swapping homes with a stranger from across the globe. Through this exchange, both discover true love and the magic of the season.

Although half of the film unfolds in Los Angeles, it's the picturesque cottage in the English countryside that fuels my daydreams about this movie. While the filming location isn't a real cottage, Honeysuckle Cottage in Holmbury St Mary served as the inspiration for the movie's set. You can experience similar charm in holiday cottages throughout Surrey, England.

'The Polar Express'

"The Polar Express" is a magical animated film inspired by Chris Van Allsburg's children's book. This heartwarming story follows a young boy who discovers the spirit of Christmas while embarking on an enchanting train journey to the North Pole.

While we sadly lack a magical train to whisk us away to meet Santa at the North Pole, you can still enjoy breathtaking landscapes and perhaps catch a glimpse of the northern lights aboard the Aurora Winter Train.

The 12-hour journey between Anchorage and Fairbanks takes you through picturesque, snow-covered landscapes, with packages offering exciting activities like dog-sledding and northern lights excursions.

'Love Actually'

This Christmas romantic comedy takes place in London and weaves together 10 different love stories. With most of the film shot on location, fans can easily explore the spots where their favorite scenes unfolded.

Grosvenor Chapel on South Audley Street serves as the venue for Peter and Juliet's wedding. Harry buys the necklace for Mia at Selfridges on Oxford Street, while Daniel shares a touching moment with his son on a bench at Gabriel's Wharf, located along Queen's Walk by the River Thames.

'It's a Wonderful Life'

"It's a Wonderful Life" is a holiday favorite for many families who enjoy it as an annual tradition. Although the story is set in the fictional Bedford Falls, many believe it was inspired by the real town of Seneca Falls, New York.

A bridge in Seneca Falls bears a striking similarity to the steel truss bridge where George Bailey leaps to save his guardian angel, Clarence. Each year, the "It's a Wonderful Life" Museum celebrates the film with a festival during the second weekend of December, although the museum itself welcomes visitors year-round.

This quaint town is nestled in the Finger Lakes region, offering plenty of activities for travelers who wish to pay tribute to the beloved Christmas movie while enjoying a more extensive vacation in the area.

'Christmas at Dollywood'

For fans of Hallmark movies, "Christmas at Dollywood" is likely a familiar title. Dolly Parton makes a special appearance in this film about a New York City event planner who finds love during her holiday visit to Tennessee while working at the Christmas event at Dollywood.

Dollywood is a fantastic destination throughout the year, but it truly shines during the holiday season. The park transforms with millions of lights and offers seven distinct holiday shows as part of the celebration. According to Dollywood's website, its Smoky Mountain Christmas festival has been recognized as America's top Christmas event for over a decade.

'The Santa Claus'

You can't overlook "The Santa Claus," the original film in the beloved Christmas movie series featuring Tim Allen. In this story, Scott discovers he is the new Santa Claus and must take over from the previous St. Nick before the holiday season arrives.

The movie showcases Santa's workshop at the North Pole. While the real North Pole might be less enchanting (and devoid of elves crafting this year's Christmas presents), you can visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland. This village is known as the Official Hometown of Santa Claus, where you can meet reindeer, enjoy dog sled rides, participate in the Elf's Hat Academy, and much more.