Pack your ugliest Christmas sweater and get ready to dream of sugarplums. It’s the time of year when hotels and inns across the Missouri are transformed, seemingly overnight, into holiday havens. If you’re planning a festive getaway this season, why not choose accommodations that fit the theme?
Here are a few locations that take holiday decorating to the next level:
Big Cedar Lodge – Ridgedale
Located in one of the state’s most festive locales, Big Cedar Lodgein Branson hosts Home for the Holidays from Nov. 6 through Dec. 31. The lodge is decorated with more than one million lights and countless Christmas trees. Ice skating, weekly winter workshop activities and visits from Santa provide fun experiences for the whole family.
Boone’s Colonial Inn – Historic Main Street St. Charles
Join the fun in historic downtown St. Charles where the annual Christmas Traditions event takes place. After a full day of festivities, spend the night at Boone’s Colonial Inn or Boone’s Lick Trail Inn where you’ll be treated to decorations in the Colonial Williamsburg style with fresh greenery, natural decor and floral arrangements.
The Elm’s Hotel & Spa – Excelsior Springs
Immerse yourself in an enchanted forest at The Elms Hotel & Spa in Excelsior Springs. Dozens of sparkling trees line the halls, and the grand, richly decorated tree in the lobby is a showstopper. The fireplace offers a cozy spot to gather and enjoy the yuletide atmosphere.
St. Louis Union Station – Downtown St. Louis
You’ll be surrounded by holiday cheer during a stay at St. Louis Union Station. The Polar Express Train Ride, Scuba Claus at the St. Louis Aquarium and Pancakes with Santa are all on the agenda. The Grand Hall holiday bar and St. Louis Union Station Soda Fountain have seasonal drink offerings for visitors on both sides of 21.
The Raphael Hotel – Kansas City
In addition to its own beautiful holiday decorations, The Raphael Hotel boasts incredible views of the dazzling Country Club Plaza light display. From Thanksgiving evening through mid-January, the 15-block shopping district glows in gorgeous jewel-colored lights.
Still Waters Resort – Branson
This retreat goes above and beyond just decking the halls – which it does exceptionally well. Still Waters Resort becomes a winter wonderland from Nov. 6 through Dec. 31. A giant inflatable adventure park provides endless activity for the kids, and craft classes offer guests an opportunity to create a variety of holiday decorations.