Skip the Crowds: Charming Cities to Visit Between Thanksgiving and Christmas

8. Dallas, Texas

Dallas stands out as a warm-ish urban option for travelers who want holiday lights and big-city amenities without the cold of northern destinations. Kayak affordability findings from November 2025 list Dallas among winter-leaning cities with attractive combined flight and hotel costs, which makes it a practical option for budget-conscious holiday travel. The city’s light displays, neighborhood events, and indoor cultural venues combine to create a festive atmosphere that’s easier to navigate in the pre-Christmas weeks. Because Dallas sees spikes closer to Christmas and New Year’s, visiting earlier in the season brings quieter museums and shorter restaurant wait times. If you prefer a mix of outdoor strolls and strong dining scenes without long lines, aim for weekday stays and consider neighborhoods outside downtown for locally focused markets and decorations. Watch weekend events calendars, as occasional festivals can increase local foot traffic even before the holidays.