

This is the number one destination for Christmas and New Year's travel in 2025, according to Google


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The Holiday Hot‑Spot of 2025: Las Vegas Tops Google’s Travel Trend Charts
When it comes to planning a getaway that feels like a glittering escape from the ordinary, most of us begin by asking a simple question: “Where should I go for Christmas and New Year’s?” According to the latest data published by TimeOut on September 16, 2025, the answer has been crystal‑clear for Google’s users worldwide: Las Vegas. The city that has long been synonymous with bright lights and nonstop entertainment has reclaimed its crown as the number‑one destination for holiday‑season travel, according to Google Trends.
Google Trends Reveals the Numbers
The TimeOut article draws on Google’s public trend‑analysis tool, which aggregates billions of search queries across the globe. In the 12‑month window leading up to the 2025 holiday season, the phrase “Las Vegas Christmas” and “Las Vegas New Year” together saw a staggering 43 % increase in search volume compared to the previous year. In contrast, other popular destinations—New York City, Orlando, and Washington, D.C.—experienced growth rates of 18 %, 15 % and 12 % respectively.
Google’s “Interest over time” graph shows a sharp spike beginning in early September, peaking in late November, and sustaining high levels through the first week of January. The trend is driven largely by two factors:
- Year‑Round Availability – Unlike snowy or beach‑heavy locales that are only viable in specific seasons, Las Vegas offers a vast array of indoor activities, from world‑class shows to indoor water parks, that can be enjoyed regardless of the weather.
- Targeted Marketing – In 2024, the city’s tourism board rolled out a major campaign titled “Celebrate In The City That Never Sleeps,” featuring discounted stay‑at‑hotel packages and early‑bird promotions that appeared in Google’s paid search listings, driving organic curiosity as well.
Google also highlights that the top search queries within the Vegas cluster include “Vegas Christmas lights,” “New Year’s Eve fireworks Las Vegas,” “Las Vegas holiday shows,” and “Vegas Christmas events.” This breadth of interests signals that travelers are looking for both the glitz of a traditional Vegas experience and the charm of a festive holiday atmosphere.
Why Vegas Stands Out
The TimeOut piece goes beyond raw data to explain why the city’s charm is so appealing during the holidays:
- Year‑Long Festivities – From the iconic “Las Vegas Strip” Christmas lights to the “Merry Christmas” décor at most hotels, the city’s streets are decked out in a celebratory glow. The “Vegas New Year’s Eve” fireworks show at the Stratosphere Tower is consistently ranked among the best in the world.
- All‑Weather Comfort – With average highs of 50–60 °F (10–15 °C) in December, travelers avoid the discomfort of sub‑freezing temperatures found in many Northeast cities. The city’s indoor malls, casinos, and entertainment complexes provide a haven from the cold.
- Showcase of Entertainment – The holiday season sees an influx of blockbuster shows, including Cirque du Soleil’s “Aerial.” New Year’s Eve is celebrated with a dazzling mix of music, dance, and fireworks.
- Dining and Shopping – Holiday-themed restaurants, pop‑up markets, and the famed “Fremont Street Experience” offer culinary delights and retail therapy that cater to every budget.
Practical Tips for 2025 Holiday Travelers
If the TimeOut article is anything to go by, those planning a trip to Las Vegas for the holidays should consider the following:
- Book Early – Hotels and flights are filling up fast, especially during the December‑to‑January window. The TimeOut piece links to Google Travel’s “Best Deals” feature, which aggregates price alerts and package discounts across major airlines and booking sites.
- Consider the Crowd – While the city’s infrastructure can handle millions of visitors, traffic on the Strip can become congested during peak times. Utilizing the Vegas “Vegas Guide” app can help you navigate crowd‑free zones and take advantage of flash sales.
- Pack Wisely – Even though the weather is mild, evenings can drop into the 40s °F (4–7 °C). A light jacket and comfortable walking shoes are essential.
- Take Advantage of Packages – Many casinos offer “Holiday Suite Packages” that bundle accommodation, dining vouchers, and show tickets at a discounted rate. These packages are highlighted in Google’s travel search results and can be compared side‑by‑side on TimeOut’s “Vegas Deals” sidebar.
Beyond Vegas: Other Destinations Worth a Look
While Las Vegas leads the pack, the article acknowledges that travelers should also consider their personal interests. For those craving a snowy backdrop, New York City remains a perennial favorite, especially for its holiday window displays and the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. Orlando and Washington, D.C. also saw upticks in searches due to seasonal attractions such as Disney World’s “Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party” and the “National Christmas Tree” in D.C.
The TimeOut piece encourages readers to explore related links such as “How to Plan a Christmas Trip to Las Vegas” (an internal guide detailing lodging, transportation, and must‑see events) and “Top 10 New Year’s Eve Parties in Vegas” (a curated list of the most celebrated parties, from the iconic “Fireworks Over Fremont Street” to intimate cocktail lounges). These resources collectively provide a comprehensive view of what a 2025 holiday escape can look like.
Final Takeaway
Google Trends’ data, coupled with TimeOut’s in‑depth analysis, paint a vivid picture: Las Vegas isn’t just a destination for a spontaneous weekend; it’s the go‑to hub for travelers looking to experience the holiday season in a city that truly never sleeps. Whether you’re chasing the sparkle of a Vegas Christmas light display, the excitement of a New Year’s Eve fireworks show, or the allure of world‑class entertainment, the city’s combination of comfort, convenience, and celebration makes it the unequivocal top choice for 2025. If you’re looking to book that trip, the data suggests you should act fast, book early, and prepare for a holiday season that’s all‑in, all‑bright, and all‑Vegas.
Read the Full Time Out Article at:
[ https://www.timeout.com/usa/news/this-is-the-number-one-destination-for-christmas-and-new-years-travel-in-2025-according-to-google-091625 ]