Get ready for visions of sugarplums to dance in your head. It’s that time of year when resorts, hotels and inns across Missouri celebrate the holidays with dazzling lights and colorful decor. Plan a festive getaway to add some extra sparkle to the season.
Big Cedar Lodge
Location: Branson
Decorated with more than four million lights and dozens of Christmas trees, Big Cedar Lodge is a sight to see. Located near Branson on the shores of Table Rock Lake, the luxury wilderness resort hosts Home for the Holidays during November and December. Ice skating, an ugly sweater 5K run, cookie baking with Mrs. Claus and visits from Santa add to the fun.
Follow clues to find the Elf on the Shelf at locations throughout the resort. Take in the festive lights and decorations on a self-guided tour, or opt for the Twinkling Tram Tour and sit back and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and a s’more on a stick.
Boone’s Colonial Inn
Location: St. Charles
Step back in time in historic downtown St. Charles where the annual Christmas Traditions event features costumed characters, holiday music, seasonal food, parades and visits with Santa. After a full day of festivities, spend the night at Boone’s Colonial Inn, decorated in a Colonial Williamsburg style with fresh greenery, natural decor and floral arrangements. St. Charles hosts Christmas Traditions activities every Friday and Saturday from Nov. 29 through Dec. 24.
The Elms Hotel & Spa
Location: Excelsior Springs
Experience the historic grandeur of The Elms Hotel & Spa decked out in its holiday finest. The richly decorated tree in the lobby is a showstopper. The fireplace offers a cozy spot to gather and soak in the yuletide atmosphere.
Discover more festive sights nearby at the Hall of Waters. The art deco building is transformed into the Hall of Trees during the holidays. Colorfully decorated trees fill the structure that once housed a water bar that served local spring water, purported to have healing powers.
St. Louis Union Station
Location: St. Louis
You’ll be surrounded by holiday cheer during a stay at St. Louis Union Station where multiple events extend throughout November and December. The Polar Express Train Ride, Scuba Claus at the St. Louis Aquarium and Pancakes with Santa are part of the fun-filled agenda.
Head to Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen for story time and cookie decorating. Toast the season with a themed cocktail amid festive surroundings at the holiday pop-up bar, Sleigh Shed at the Train Shed.
The Raphael Hotel
Location: Kansas City
In addition to its own beautiful holiday decorations, The Raphael Hotel boasts incredible views of Kansas City’s dazzling Country Club Plaza light display. From Thanksgiving through mid-January, the historic shopping district glows in jewel-tone colors.
A flip of the switch on Thanksgiving evening reveals the lights outlining every dome, tower and window in the 15-block area. The lighting ceremony has been a Kansas City tradition since 1930.
Still Waters Resort
Location: Branson
Still Waters Resort goes above and beyond decking the halls. The resort’s Winter Wonderland event runs Nov. 6 through Dec. 31. A giant inflatable adventure park – including a polar bear slide and a cabin in the woods bounce house – provides endless fun for the kids. Craft classes offer an opportunity to create a variety of holiday decorations, including a Christmas ornament, snow globe and wreath.