Photo ops with Santa at the mall are fine, but Ole Saint Nick is making some unique visits around the country this year. From dramatic entrances by air and by sea, to mountainside sightings and rodeo events, the man in the big red suit is gracing the destinations below with a little extra Christmas magic. Look out for flying reindeer (Perdido Key, Florida) Santa lands on this beach in Perdido Key, Florida by Cody Riviello - Unsplash This year on December 9th, don't miss a trip to the gulf coast to experience the Annual Santa Drop, where Santa Claus will skydive onto the snowy-white sandy beach on Perdido Key. On the state line between Florida and Alabama, visitors can view Santa's thrilling entrance at 12:30pm from the Flora-Bama beach lounge. Following the jump, photos ops with the jolly skydiver will be available—all ages are welcome to get in line, so don't forget to bring your holiday wish list! Flora-Bama will also have kids crafts, games, live music featuring holiday tunes for the kiddos, face painting, treats, and (for those of age) plenty of Bushwackers for sale at the bar. The event free to the public, and entertainment begins at 11am. See the Fast and the Festive-est (Breckenridge, Colorado) Downtown Breckenridge in the snow by Michael Steinman - Unsplash The Lighting of Breckenridge in Colorado captures the charm of a snowy mountain town straight out of a holiday movie; but it also has a unique event that brings not one, but several Santas to town. The "Race of the Santas," which takes place during this year's celebration on December 2nd, features hundreds of Santa look-alikes running down the town's Main Street in a race to the finish line. Following the race, the "real" Santa makes an early appearance to Breckenridge to light the tree and illuminate the town with over 250,000 holiday lights. Then from 5 to 7:30pm at the Mountain Top Explorium, kids can visit Santa himself. Other events during the day include a holiday dog parade, a mini-race for kids called the "moose march," carolers, and other revelry. A holiday market and toy drive also run throughout the day. Stop by Santa's year-round workshop (Colorado Springs, Colorado) A Christmas gift all wrapped up by Samuel Holt - Unsplash Sure, Christmas is the best time of year to encounter Santa Claus, but if you're someone who can't shake the holiday spirit (no matter the season), you'll be thrilled to know that Saint Nick can always be found at the North Pole in Colorado Springs. Located at the picturesque foot of Pikes Peak, the North Pole-Santa's Workshop offers a vintage amusement park experience with rides, festive shops, and the chance to meet Santa year-round, creating a timeless family tradition. Take in a show with Elmer the Elf, watch the glass blower create beautiful custom ornaments before your eyes, and don't forget to get some sweet treats at the Carousel Cafe. Wrangle a visit with Old Saint Nick at the rodeo (Las Vegas, Nevada) Christmas decor in Las Vegas by M A Dipp - Unsplash Proud to continue the western legacy in downtown Las Vegas, the Plaza Hotel & Casino will again serve as a hotel sponsor of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) and host numerous professional rodeo events at its outdoor equestrian facility, the CORE Arena, December 4th through 16th. Alongside the rodeo events, the Downtown Christmas Expo takes over the Plaza’s third floor convention space from 9 am to 4:30 pm daily, December 7th through 16th. As a special treat for younger attendees, this year, Santa Claus will be at the Downtown Christmas Expo daily from noon to 2 pm. Shoppers can also bring a new unwrapped toy to donate to a toy drive to benefit St. Jude’s Ranch for Children, a local nonprofit that provides a community of hope and healing to help children and youth who have been abused, neglected, homeless, and/or exploited. The carefully curated shopping event features a diverse array of apparel and accessory designers, artisans, jewelers, and Western couture. Free to attend, the Downtown Christmas Expo is a marquee part of the memorable Western experience in Las Vegas every December. Head to the Cape for a seaside welcome (Falmouth, Massachusetts) Cape Code, Massachusetts by at - Unsplash In Cape Cod, a seafaring Santa makes his way to the town of Falmouth, Massachusetts during the first weekend of December. Falmouth's Holidays by The Sea Weekend is free to attend and features events throughout the town, including caroling at Woods Hole, the Nobska Light Holiday Open House, a GhElf run and Jingle Jog, the annual lighting of the Falmouth Village Green, and a downtown holiday stroll. On the morning of Saturday, December 2nd, Santa sails into the harbor at 10:30am (with free candy canes for all!). Then, on Sunday, Santa Claus returns to take part in the largest Christmas parade in southeast New England, which features decorated floats, marching bands, live animals, and costumed characters.

In Monterey County, California paths connect places, people and experiences, offering a wealth of things to explore. Every trip offers a new opportunity to connect with those around you, with nature and with yourself. Below are four different ways to experience this West Coast destination, with something for every type of traveler. Find you "path" below, and get to booking a trip for the new year! The Wellness Path: Connect Within and Find Your Center Spa treatment at Post Ranch Inn - courtesy of See Monterey Combining the region's iconic natural beauty with unique and immersive bespoke experiences, Monterey County is a haven for wellness seekers. Reconnect with your mind, body and spirit as you immerse yourself in the tranquil trails along the pristine coastline of Pacific Grove, find your Zen in serene redwood forests and enjoy rejuvenating spa experiences at renowned resorts. From indigenous-inspired treatments and shaman sessions to cold stream plunges and equine therapy programs, wellness travelers can experience a diverse array of rejuvenating activities, ensuring an enriching journey of self-discovery. The Epicurean Path: A Culinary Voyage of Land and Sea Old Fisherman's Wharf - courtesy of See Monterey Monterey County is a haven for foodies, connecting diners with fresh seafood straight from the Monterey Bay, produce from the verdant Salinas Valley and award-winning wine poured tableside. Culinary experiences are accompanied by acclaimed wines from the Carmel and Salinas valleys, the largest Chardonnay grower in the country, at esteemed and award-winning vineyards that offer immersive and authentic wine journeys. Savor local classics, such as the iconic clam chowder served in a warm garlic bread bowl or fresh-caught calamari. For an elevated dining experience, indulge in delights crafted by Carmel-by-the-Sea's Michelin-starred chefs like succulent abalone skewers and Dungeness crab ravioli. Additionally, embark on a self-guided journey along the Artichoke Trail, a path winding through farm stands, local shops and restaurants throughout Monterey County, where two-thirds of the world's artichokes are cultivated. The Outdoor Path: Conquer New Horizons Pfeiffer Falls Trail in Big Sur - courtesy of See Monterey Connect with Mother Nature as you explore Monterey County's natural wonders. Monterey County boasts a treasure trove of outdoor adventures and is a veritable playground for wildlife lovers, leisure hikes and thrill seekers. Whether you're into hiking, biking, wildlife spotting or skydiving over Seaside, Monterey County offers diverse landscapes, from 99 miles of sweeping coastline to endless trails into the redwoods and out of the valley. Explore miles of serene hiking trails that wind through the lush redwood forests of Big Sur and the coastal bluffs, perfect for leisurely strolls or challenging hikes. For thrill-seekers, embark on exciting water sports such as kayaking in the pristine waters of Monterey Bay or scuba diving to discover the hidden gems living in the kelp forests. Watch the California condors while you hike ancient rock formations and discover caves at Pinnacle National Park or take a leisurely cruise down the Elkhorn Slough on the lookout for marine birds and sea otters. There's a path, literally and figuratively, for every type of outdoor enthusiast to discover nature and themselves. The Family Friendly Path: Adventures for the Young and Young at Heart Monterey Bay Aquarium - courtesy of See Monterey Creating cherished family memories is effortless in Monterey County. Brimming with attractions for kids and the young at heart, there is an abundance of opportunities for families to create lasting moments and connect with each other. Explore the wonders of the ocean at the world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium, where both young and old can marvel at marine life. Enjoy quality time together at the family-friendly resorts in Carmel Valley where adventure and relaxation blend seamlessly. Discover accessibility and inclusivity at new attractions like Orchard Lane Park in Soledad, the sensory children's park designed to accommodate all children, or ride the rails through Marina State Park on a handcar tour, sure to tire out active kiddos. For a classic family experience, venture to Dennis the Menace Park, a beloved local destination where kids can run, play and let their imaginations roam free. The possibilities are as diverse as your family's unique interests, ensuring that every family member can find their own path to an unforgettable family adventure. — For more information and to find your way here, please visit www.SeeMonterey.com.

New Year's is just around the corner, which means it's time to start thinking about health and wellness goals. While new fitness memberships are a popular and respectable choice, consider avoiding the crowds at gyms this January and put those savings towards a luxurious trip for the senses. From hot spring dips to aromatherapy, from the mountains and forests to deserts and beaches, the retreats below offer something for everyone looking to rejuvenate the body and mind. Resolve to prioritize self-care at one of these incredible spa destinations below. Immerse the senses in geothermal pools (Sonoma, California) Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is ideally situated atop an ancient mineral hot spring, allowing guests to take advantage of the proven healing benefits of mineral waters in geothermal pools. The drawing of energy from nature has been practiced for millennia. Guests can immerse themselves in the elements and be reconnected with nature at Fairmont Spa. The famed Bathing Ritual at the Bathhouse will leave you feeling vibrant and nourished. The steps you'll travel will be filled with ancient mineral waters, fire, ice, and healing aromas. Make the most of a Sonoma County Wine Country getaway with a curated offer designed with rejuvenation in mind. Visiting for just a night or escaping for a few? The perfect package is available at Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa. Harmonize with nature in the Rocky Mountains (Dubois, Wyoming) The mountains in Dubois by Andrew Sterling - Unsplash Unwind and embrace the timeless allure of the mountains at Brooks Lake Lodge's Rocky Mountain Spa in Dubois, where guests can enjoy complimentary access to amenities like hot tubs, saunas, a fitness center and a tranquil relaxation room. Amidst the rejuvenating ambiance of Shoshone National Forest, the spa's skilled staff pampers guests from head to toe, offering a complete spa experience that harmonizes body, mind and soul at this luxurious resort near Yellowstone National Park. Additionally, guests can explore a wealth of outdoor adventures, from horseback riding and hiking to fishing in pristine mountain lakes, ensuring an unforgettable retreat. Enjoy a waterfront getaway (The Palm Beaches, Florida) A pool at Hilton West Palm Beach - courtesy of Hilton West Palm Beach and Discover The Palm Beaches Several prominent resorts and hotels in The Palm Beaches are undergoing substantial transformations, amplifying the guest experience. Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa recently completed an extensive renovation, unveiling 175 revamped guest rooms and suites, upgraded banquet spaces, and the all-new Latitudes restaurant, accompanied by a variety of amenities, including a dedicated kids club. Tideline Ocean Resort & Spa, nestled along the south Palm Beach waterfront, is also preparing to reopen this month following a $20 million renovation, focusing on modernized guest rooms, updated dining venues, and refreshed common areas. Relax under the Redwoods (Guerneville, California) Redwoods in California by Matt Busse - Unsplash Try a "relax under the redwoods" package at Dawn Ranch. Escape to your own cabin or cottage and receive a $100 spa credit to be used on treatments during your stay. Treat yourself to a facial, a massage or just a relaxing aromatherapy session all while reconnecting with nature at the new spa at Dawn Ranch. Explore the other on-site activities, including Writing Salons (select Fridays), Creative Workshops: Treasure Boxes (Fridays), Dawn Ranch Scent Discovery Workshops (select Saturdays), and Introduction to Forest Bathing (select Sundays). Add a wildlife excursion to your spa day (Saratoga, Wyoming) Fly fishing in Saratoga, Wyoming by Glenna Haug - Unsplash In Saratoga, Brush Creek Ranch's Trailhead Spa invites guests to indulge in a wide range of pampering services, including massages and facials, inspired by the rich heritage of the West, providing a unique healing renewal experience amidst inspiring landscapes. Furthermore, guests can complement their rejuvenating spa experience by exploring a diverse array of outdoor activities, from horseback riding and fly fishing to hiking and wildlife excursions, guaranteeing guests a relaxing and memorable retreat. Visit the country's top-ranked spas (Arizona) The view from Castle Hot Springs road in Morristown, Arizona by Jim Witkowski - Unsplash Can't choose just one spot? Plan a multi-spa trip to Arizona. Five spas from across the state earned recognition in Condé Nast Traveler's Top 20 Destination Spas in the US: 2023 Reader's Choice Awards. The luxurious Mii Amo in Sedona, Canyon Ranch in Tucson, Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa in Tucson, CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa in Carefree and Castle Hot Springs in Morristown all earn a spot on the list for helping guests find tranquility through their spa treatments and stylish accommodations. If you're looking for seclusion in particular, Castle Hot Springs fits the bill. Located down a dusty dirt road, access is limited to registered overnight guests. Unwind in the natural hot springs, or go on an adventure in the Sonoran Desert.

If the darker days and chillier temps of November have dampened excitement over the impending holidays and the weather it might bring—fear not. Forget those cumbersome sweaters and winter accessories, order your peppermint mocha iced instead of hot, and head south to these sunnier (but no less festive) holiday destinations. The four warm-weather towns below are making spirits bright with seasonal celebrations, elaborate lighting displays and decor, outdoor activities, and much more. Oceanside, California Holiday lights in Oceanside, California - courtesy of Visit Oceanside Perfectly situated between metropolitan San Diego and Los Angeles, Oceanside is a quintessential California coastal escape that includes wide sandy beaches, a quaint New England-style harbor, historic wooden pier and charming bungalow neighborhoods. O'side (as locals affectionately call it) is a destination of discovery where visitors can explore everything from California history at the “King of Missions” to surf culture at the California Surf Museum and awe-inspiring sea life through exciting ocean adventures. Kicking off the holiday season is the popular Thanksgiving Day O'side Turkey Trot, which takes participants along a scenic course through downtown Oceanside and along the coastline. Festivities continue into December with the official tree lighting in the Pacific Plaza on December 7th that includes visits with Santa, arts, crafts and a gift mart. Other December events include holiday concerts performed by the San Luis Rey Chorale at the historic Mission San Luis Rey, a holiday-themed Sunset Market each Thursday and the Oceanside Harbor Parade of Lights on December 9th where fishing boats, sail boats, yachts, kayaks and dingys dress up in holiday swag and circle the Oceanside Harbor to enchant onlookers. For anytime fun, Oceanside's Top Tier Escape Rooms, voted the best in San Diego, is debuting a special Christmas themed challenge to delight holiday revelers of all ages. Visitors can also discover Oceanside's beauty and culture from the perspective of two new tour offerings: Pegasus Sidecar tours and electric Moke tours. With Pegasus Sidecar Tours, participants hop into a vintage sidecar attached to a classic motorcycle and embark on guided adventures along scenic routes that include the historic Mission San Luis Rey, Oceanside Pier, and more. Sidecars hold up to two people and small pets can come along too. Moke and Sons self-guided tours are a fun, eco-friendly and stylish way to cruise “California style” around town. A throw back to a European classic, the newly minted low-speed Moke Electric Vehicles can be delivered directly to Mission Pacific Beach Resort and The Seabird Ocean Resort and Spa and are a family-friendly option for cruising the Historic Highway 101 and surrounding areas. Packages are available for 2 hours, 5 hours or all day. Don't forget to make souvenir, too. At Art Magic, memories of days spent at the beach are captured through epoxy resin as participants design ocean-themed trays, cheese boards, and coasters. Oceanside Museum of Art's monthly bite-sized Taste of Art happy hour includes a museum educator-led lively artist discussion over drinks and nibbles followed by an activity where participants create a work of art inspired by the artist. Sip, Paint, and Gaze happens every Friday night at The Seabird Ocean Resort & Spa. Open to resort guests and non-guests, participants find inspiration in coast views as they paint a sunset masterpiece while enjoying libations. Finally, located in a former gas station from the 1930s, Rising Co. cooperative offers a rotating calendar of make and create workshops where participants can learn how to oil and stamp veg-tan leather, turn plastic bags into zipper pouches, and more. Daytona, Florida An incredible sunrise in Daytona Beach by Ravi Pinisetti - Unsplash From holiday spectaculars and concerts to the golden anniversary of one of the largest car shows and swap meets in the United States, winter travelers spending their holidays in the Daytona Beach area and locals alike will discover plenty of festive happenings to enjoy. Daytona International Speedway will be the location of two holiday traditions in the Daytona Beach area – the Magic of Lights and the Turkey Run. From November 17th through December 31st, Magic of Lights will transform the storied race track into a drive-through holiday-theme light spectacular featuring dozens of displays, festive favorites, and digital animation, all constructed with millions of individual LED lights to create a memorable holiday experience for the whole family. Inside the comfort of their own vehicles, guests will enjoy Magic of Lights’ classic holiday favorites including Winter Wonderland, the 12 Days of Christmas, Toyland, festive Elves and Reindeer Road. In addition to the 200-foot long Enchanting Tunnel of Lights, there will also be other illuminated displays including the 32-foot-tall, animated Mattel’s Waving Christmas Barbie®, Prehistoric Christmas featuring life sized dinosaurs celebrating the season, and the legendary BIGFOOT® Monster Truck. Created with over two million sparkling lights, Magic of Lights is a nostalgic and festive event everyone will enjoy. Another popular event at the Speedway, the 50th Annual Daytona Turkey Run on November 23rd through 26th will feature thousands of unique automobiles and swap meet vendors in the infield of the “World Center of Racing.” Considered to be largest combined car show and swap meet in the US, this family-friendly four-day event attracts close to 200,000 attendees every Thanksgiving holiday week to the Daytona Beach area. Scottsdale, Arizona Holiday decorations in Scottsdale, Arizona - courtesy of Experience Scottsdale The Sonoran Desert shines a bit brighter this season with holiday magic. From November 17th to January 6th, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess transforms into a holiday headquarters during Christmas at the Princess, complete with 6.5 million sparkling LED lights. In addition to the Desert Ice Rink, S'mores Land, the Princess Express Train, and The Village, new this year is Aurora Ice, an ice lounge bathed in an illumination reminiscent of the Aurora Borealis, better known as the Northern Lights. On November 25th, Scottsdale Quarter’s Santa Social offers an infinite supply of cheer with special character appearances, its annual tree lighting ceremony, a holiday feature film, and of course, a visit from Old St. Nick himself. Then, from November 24th through December 31st, Enchant, an immersive, extravagant winter celebration, returns with a new light maze where visitors help a mischievous elf named Eddie, and Sparky the reindeer, recover missing toys before Santa’s big night. The event also includes an ice-skating trail, live entertainment, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Finally, from November 24th through January 7th, Holiday Lights at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park offers enchanting displays and twinkling lights surrounding the park’s Paradise & Pacific Railroad and historic Charros Carousel for a picture-perfect evening. Don't forget to stop into some of Scottsdale's wonderful museums. Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West introduces new exhibitions this season. “Women of the West: Highlights from The Fran and Ed Elliott Southwest Women Artists Collection” focuses on women artists connected to Arizona throughout the late territorial period and early 20th century. The museum will soon open an exhibit featuring works of art from a portion of the Eddie Basha Collection of American Indian and Western American fine art, one of the largest, privately-owned art collections of its kind. Also this season, the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) showcases how cultures from around the world celebrate their unique winter holidays through “'Tis the Seasons: Holidays at MIM” with performances from Dickens Carolers, Mariachi Rubor, and Rural Street Klezmer Band, and festive-themed activities such as a music-making workshop and a Kwanzaa storytelling (December 9th and 10th). Frisco, Texas A heart sign and holiday lights in Frisco, Texas - courtesy of Visit Frisco Frisco is where sports stars play, music's biggest stars take the stage, and holiday magic comes to life. Connect these five ways to explore Frisco to make you and your guests the star this holiday season: hotels, events, shopping, dining, and sports. Kick off the holiday season in Frisco at Merry Main Street presented by Texas Health Hospital Frisco, Saturday, December 2nd from 3:30 to 8 p.m. The event will feature a holiday gift market, food vendors, school choir performances, Santa & Friends parade, and the lighting of The City of Frisco Christmas Tree in front of the George A. Purefoy Municipal Center. This is a free event, open to the public. Also on December 2nd, don your merriest running gear or costume and take part in one of Frisco's most popular holiday traditions, the Frosty 5K & Merry Mile. Taking place November 18th through January 8th, Christmas in the Square is one of the largest choreographed lights and music displays in North Texas. The nightly show begins at 6 p.m. and features more than 175,000 lights. Tune in to the radio in your vehicle or listen to the music piped through speakers as you take a walk through the Square. This year's Christmas in the Square event will also feature Skate the Square, an outdoor ice-skating rink, as well as a Christmas tree lot. The light and music show is free to experience. Some activities do require a fee. The Dallas Cowboys will host Cowboys Christmas Extravaganza powered by Reliant each Friday and Saturday at 6 p.m., November 17th through December 16th. The must-see 20-minute show on Tostitos Championship Plaza kicks off with the lighting of The Star's 67-foot Christmas tree and holiday performances featuring the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, Dallas Cowboys Rhythm and Blue Dancers, Santa Claus, and special guest appearances. Admission and parking for the event are free. Witness more than one million lights at Riders Field from the comfort and convenience of your vehicle at The Light Park drive thru light show. Pre-purchase tickets and pile up your friends or family - and your pup, too - to make some memories. Snacks like popcorn, candy, sodas, water, and light-up lemonade are available for purchase. Fridays and Saturdays in December at PGA Frisco mean toy soldiers, real reindeer, rides on the Fields Ranch Holiday Express Train, ornament decorating, tree lightings, and cozy outdoor movies on the big screen. Whether you're looking to get into the holiday spirit or simply enjoy a fun-filled evening, Home on The Range for The Holidays is the place to be. This is a ticketed event with additional exclusive experiences available to Omni PGA Frisco Resort guests who purchase the holiday package. On Monday, December 18th the U.S. Army Bowl brings the top high school football players together at Ford Center at The Star. The next day at Toyota Stadium, it's time for classic Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) action at the Scooter's Coffee Frisco Bowl. Take a tour of the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters, The Star, to see where players train. Dive into the history of America's team as you explore the Ring of Honor Walk in The Star District. Finally, keep the holidays going on January 7, 2024 with the NCAA Division I Football Championship (FCS) at Toyota Stadium, home to the best championship memories in college football.