If you’re craving the perfect “meet cute” or an adorable small town main street, you might turn to Hallmark’s most charming movies to get your fix. But did you know that you can visit some of these locations in real life to experience the magic in person? Whether you’re stopping by one of the towns used for on-location shoots in your favorite flick or just want the ambiance of a charming small town, these are must-visit places that should go on your travel list.

Hallmark Christmas Villages

Spend Christmas in one of these adorable towns and you’ll wonder if you actually stepped into a Hallmark movie.

1. Leavenworth, WA - This town turns into a Christmas wonderland each year, complete with lights, sledding, and hot cocoa. You can visit from the end of November when the town officially illuminates through the end of December to experience the magic for yourself. Visitors praise charming Bavarian architecture, festive decorations, and a friendly, welcoming vibe. Average rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars, based on over 1,000 reviews on Tripadvisor. It stands out from other similar cities for its special architecture making travelers feel like they are in Europe. 

2. Newport, RI - Christmas in Newport is a celebration of festive twinkling lights, which adorn the downtown area, many of the town’s historic homes, and local businesses. Take a tour of the opulent Gilded Age mansions along the cliff walk while you are visiting. Most visitors praise it while some say that during holidays accommodation can be expensive, and it gets crowded. However, there are a lot of events happening like the Holiday Concert, the Annual Newport Harbor Illuminated Boat Parade, and many more so you won’t be bored for sure!
3. North Pole, AK - With a name like North Pole, it’s not surprising that this town is all about celebrating Christmas. You can visit Santa’s house any time of year to get into the Christmas spirit. The town only has around 2,700 residents but they embrace spreading cheer far and wide. Compared to other Christmas destinations it offers a more authentic Santa-themed experience, therefore families love this place. Entrance to Santa Claus House is free, and visiting this village in general is affordable. 

4. Vail, CO - No one does winter and Christmas quite like Vail. This ski resort town gets decked out and celebrates the holiday in style. It was also where “Winter in Vail” was filmed for Hallmark. You can spend the day on the slopes, and then cuddle up with cocoa by the fire. Vali has a historic and charming village, skiing terrain, comfortable accommodations, a lively cultural and event calendar, and a strong sense of community.

Quaint Towns in Hallmark Movies

See where some of your favorite flicks and scenes were shot in these quaint towns.

5. Nevada City, CA - Against an epic backdrop of Tahoe National Forest, Nevada City is the perfect quaint town in California. The city loves to celebrate, with special events ranging from Christmas to local art festivals. It was also the town featured in Hallmark’s “The Christmas Card.” Fans can take self-guided tours to see locations featured in the movie. Many visitors describe it as cozy and comfortable, offering a real Hallmark experience. 

6. Marietta, GA - If you want the charm of a town square, head over to Mariette, which is northwest of Atlanta in Georgia. The Hallmark movie “Christmas Wishes and Mistletoe Kisses.” You can visit the town’s Strand Theater as well as the Marietta Square, both of which appear in the movie. This town got a 4.5 score on Tripadvisor and the travelers noted ‘So much to see. Even though the weather wasn't great, it was fun to walk around and explore the different shops and galleries. Definitely will come back!’

7. Wilmington, NC - Hallmark went to this coastal North Carolina town to film not one, not two, but three movies. “Christmas in Harmony,” “USS Christmas,” and “Christmas in Conway” were all shot with scenes in Wilmington. You can visit iconic spots from the movies, including the USS North Carolina battleship. Additionally, you can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides for the ultimate Hallmark experience. Visitors often praise Wilmington for its festive charm, family-friendly activities, and beautiful film-worthy scenery. However, some note that crowds during peak holiday times can be a challenge.
8. Dahlonega, GA - This town played host to the filming of “Christmas in Homestead” about a Hollywood actress who is filming a Christmas movie in a fictional town. In real life, Dahlonega is a great place to enjoy holiday festivities but is equally beautiful during other seasons, especially autumn when the leaves turn brilliant colors. There are plenty of activities for families, solo and couple travelers like local artisan markets, concerts, wineries, Christmas tree farms, and many more. Dahlonega’s proximity to Georgia’s wine country sets it apart from other similar attractions.

Hallmark Town Main Streets

A great Main Street or downtown is a must in any Hallmark movie.

9. Southern Pines, NC - This small town’s main street looks straight out of a Hallmark movie. From the popular brunch restaurant to the historic post office, it’s a welcoming atmosphere in North Carolina’s sandhills. A train depot boasting the town’s name sits in the middle of the downtown area to welcome visitors. If you are a bookworm you can pay a visit to The Country Bookshop, on the other side if you are knitters check out Bella Filati Luxury Yarns. Have breakfast at Betsy's Crepes or for a classic American dining experience visit Chapman's Food and Spirits.

10. Annapolis, MD - Beginning at the City Dock that overlooks the water that leads to the Chesapeake Bay, take a stroll up the hill to the historic Church Circle and nearby State Circle, taking in the local shops and historic homes that make this brick-paved downtown area so quaint. For dining and coffee check out Chick & Ruth’s Delly which got a 4.5 rating from 2,034 reviews on Tripadvisor. Walkways and piers along the harbor offer stunning views and spots for relaxation.

11. Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA - This quaint town is home to storybook details, including pitched roofs, secret gardens, and flower-covered walkways. As you stroll the streets, you’ll find world-class dining and shopping, as well as sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. For art lovers, there are many art galleries then wineries, and amazing dining places like La Bicyclette and Casanova. One of the visitors stated: "Carmel feels like stepping into a fairytale with its enchanting cottages and cobblestone streets."
12. Madison, IN - Art studios, restaurants, and boutiques are all nestled together on this walkable Main Street. The Farmer’s Market, Music in the Park, Fall Window Display contests, and Holiday Open Houses are just a few of the many events that bring the community together in this picturesque part of town. It was also a winner of the 2024 Great American Main Street Award. Madison rivals hallmark towns like Dahlonega, GA, with its rich historical backdrop and architecture.

Historic Hallmark Towns

Historic details give many Hallmark-esque towns their unique charm.

13. Williamsburg, VA - Step back in time and experience how the holidays were celebrated in early colonial America days. Colonial Williamsburg is known for its displays of traditional Christmas decor at Christmas and its period reenactments, which are done all year. You can enjoy events like holiday music performances, ice skating, historic taverns, and many more. Most visitors have positive experiences while some noted "Some events and tours are pricey, especially for families." on Tripadvisor.

14. Asheville, NC - Hallmark’s “A Biltmore Christmas” was filmed at the Biltmore Estate in the Asheville area. It was built by the Vanderbilt family in the late 19th Century and is now open to the public for tours of the opulent mansion and grounds. You can participate in various activities such as holiday crafting classes, wine and culinary experiences, horse-drawn carriage rides, and live performances. This town offers a unique blend of luxury, history, and seasonal cheer, standing out from simpler hallmark towns like Dahlonega, GA, and Leavenworth, WA.
15. Essex, CT - This historic town was first the colony of Saybrook and later a place for wooden shipbuilding and then railroads. See the historic buildings and stop by the Ivoryton Playhouse, which was built in 1911 and continues to put on productions today. The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat and family-oriented events like the North Pole Express cater to families and make it stand out from other Hallmar cities. Have a beer in The Griswold Inn, a historic tavern dating back to 1776.

Check out one of these quaint towns and historic cities to see the magic of a Hallmark movie in real life. Pack your bags and immerse yourself in the enchanting vibe of these towns, where memories are made, and every visit feels like a step into a storybook.